Stephen Jones, Artist Hats: The Sculptural Exhibition
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Unveiled just a few days ago at the Palais Galliera, the exhibition Stephen Jones, Artist Hats has completely enchanted us. Tracing the prolific career of the British milliner, a total of over 400 pieces, including 170 hats, are presented to us in a muted setting. From St. Martin’s to the Blitz parties, through the grandest runways and workshops, these archives bear witness to the encounters and inspirations that have shaped Jones’s style and fame over the years, between London and Paris. Let’s take a look back at this exceptional exhibition, which showcases the hat as a true work of art.
A Captivating Set Design to Celebrate Craftsmanship
Forty years after the last exhibition dedicated to an accessory, the installation Stephen Jones, Artist Hats marks an important event for the Palais Galliera. And it is with a carefully curated and enchanting set design that the museum unveils a new chapter in the history of fashion. Transitioning from the quirky ambiance of London’s Blitz Kids parties to the splendor of Paris haute couture shows, the visit is punctuated by fascinating creations that highlight the inventiveness and craftsmanship of Stephen Jones.
The elegant and minimalist set design of the exhibition allows these exceptional pieces to shine with lights that enhance their cuts, details, and materials. A unique feeling emerges, that of having a privileged place facing these pieces that resemble sculptures.
Between headpieces, sketches, magazine covers, collection presentations, complete looks, photographs, and interviews, the exhibition Stephen Jones, Artist Hats highlights the evolution of the milliner’s career, particularly the blend of England and France in his work.
Additionally, a playlist created by the museum and Stephen Jones accompanies our visit with the rhythms of Visage, Culture Club, and Roxy Music. A way to further immerse ourselves in his unique universe.
Stephen Jones, Artist Hats: A Story of Encounters and Inspirations
From Shirley Hex to Jean Paul Gaultier, passing through Boy George and John Galliano, the exhibition Stephen Jones, Artist Hats emphasizes how encounters have allowed the milliner to create his style and establish his place in the fashion world.
As we explore the displayed creations, we discover the influence of music and the movement of the New Romantics on his style. We also see how his creations draw inspiration from his vacations or transform into artistic conversations with other creators, like Schiaparelli or Cocteau. These artists, encountered throughout his journey, have supported him in nurturing his talent and propelling it forward.
Thus, his pieces, initially designed for his friends, have gradually been replaced by orders from prestigious profiles, such as Lady D, and then by major names in haute couture. Vivienne Westwood, Azzedine Alaïa, Claude Montana, Comme des Garçons, Thierry Mugler, Montana, Balenciaga, Marc Jacobs, and even LOEWE have incorporated his vision into their collections over the years, celebrating exceptional craftsmanship.
These encounters have forged strong bonds, allowing him to develop his brand on one side and, on the other, to be appointed head of prestigious workshops. It is thus that Stephen Jones now holds the position of artistic director of the fashion workshops at Dior and Schiaparelli.
It is thus in awe that we exit the exhibition, and we can only recommend it to you!
Stephen Jones, Artist Hats runs until March 16, 2025. Guided tours are also offered every month to provide you with more information about the behind-the-scenes work of the milliner.
If you wish to continue with a second exhibition, head to the -1 of Palais Galliera where the second part of Fashion in Motion! is currently taking place.
Photo: ©Palais Galliera
