Phoenix Art Museum announced on March 31 that it will open a new exhibition, Colorwear: A Kaleidoscope of Fashion, beginning April 15. The show marks the 60th anniversary of the museum’s fashion collection and will feature colorful ensembles and accessories by designers such as Hubert de Givenchy, Olivier Lapidus, Tina Leser, and Giorgio di Sant’Angelo.
The exhibition is significant as it highlights the museum’s longstanding commitment to preserving and showcasing fashion design. It also reflects Phoenix Art Museum’s broader efforts to engage visitors with art from diverse cultures and periods, according to the official website.
Colorwear: A Kaleidoscope of Fashion will be displayed in the Kelly Ellman Fashion Galleries through August 15, 2027. Visitors can expect to see not only vibrant gowns but also unique objects like Judith Leiber pillboxes decorated with crystals, psychedelic scarves, and shoes inspired by various themes. The presentation includes rotating ensembles throughout the year and a forthcoming catalogue featuring contributions from fashion historians.
Jeremy Mikolajczak, Sybil Harrington Director and CEO of Phoenix Art Museum said, “Colorwear: A Kaleidoscope of Fashion offers a special glimpse into the extraordinary accessories and ensembles that have shaped Phoenix Art Museum’s fashion collection for six decades. By bringing together objects that range from the smallest to the most extravagant, the exhibition immerses visitors in the expressive power of color as a form of storytelling.” Helen Jean, Jacquie Dorrance Curator of Fashion added: “Colorful clothing sparks emotion—both when we wear it and when we see it. It can uplift our mood and encourage boldness or inspire a more contemplative or nostalgic state… Through garments and accessories, the exhibition highlights individuality, self-expression, and visual storytelling through the splendor of color.”
Founded in 1959,Phoenix Art Museum operates as the largest art institution in the southwestern United States. Its collection exceeds 20,000 objects,according to its official website, reaching hundreds of thousands annually through exhibitions.The museum has offered world-class exhibitions for over six decades.It aims to ignite imaginations by providing vibrant spaces for experiencing art while promoting inclusivity for all abilities.Community programs are designed to foster connections among visitors.
Admission is free for members and children under five; general admission includes entry during regular hours with reduced rates available at certain times thanks to community partners.
