about: Since 1977 the textile and costume museum has aimed to gather an exciting and coherent collection, growing steadily through purchases, loans and donations. Many collections are interesting for scientific and historic research, including the collection of print blocks for fabric and a catalogue of work by Hélène Braun who conducted research on traditional clothes and hand-weaving in Europe, from the 1930’s to the fifties. In addition, the musuem has a huge collection of 18th-20th century costumes, including dresses, hats, jewellery, scarves and lingerie.
The museum also has a unique collection of regional clothes from the Antwerp Kempen region, lace (bobbin and needle lace), embroidery and religious textiles.
The Mode Museum runs two themed exhibitions a year, and regularly has exhibition projects on display in the Museum Gallery. In addition, the museum has a comprehensive fashion and design bookshop.
Current Exhibitions:
Delvaux. 180 Years of Belgian Luxury
Over a period of 180 years, Belgian luxury goods house Delvaux has met the needs of clientele living through times of dramatic change and movement. ?Founded in an era when travel was largely horse-drawn, the company has survived through revolutions and wars, and adapted to the requirements of railways and ocean liners, bicycles, cars and jets.
This exhibition showcases Delvaux from the manufacture of travel goods for the local nobility in the 19th century, through to the rise of the modern handbag in the 20th century, to present day design under artistic director Veronique Branquinho.
The exhibition runs until Sunday 22nd February 2010.
Black. Masters of Black in Fashion & Costume
Momu’s newest exhibition illustrates the historic phases of the colour black, with examples taken from painting, historic costume and contemporary fashion. It also looks into the textures and the potential of black in diverse materials, including fur, leather and lace. The exhibition also includes masterpieces by contemporary designers who, like the city of Antwerp, have a special connection to black.
Designers featured include Ann Demeulemeester, Olivier Theyskens, Dirk Van Saene, Givenchy (Riccardo Tisci), Chanel and Gareth Pugh.
The exhibition begins March 25th and runs until August 8th 2010.
Image credits left to right: Black; Black; Delvaux