Hudson's Bay presents 'Little Black Dress' exhibition in Vancouver

Canadian retailer Hudson's Bay has partnered with the BC Society for the Museum of Original Costume (SMOC) to showcase the 'Little Black Dress' exhibit at the Hudson's Bay flagship store in downtown Vancouver.

On view until March 14, the exhibition, curated by Ivan Sayers, honorary curator of SMOC and curator emeritus of the Museum of Vancouver, offers a journey through the evolution of this timeless garment from the 1950s to the 1960s.

The exhibition features twelve couture and ready-to-wear pieces from designers including Dior, Oscar De La Renta, Elizabeth Arden, The House of Worth and more. Notable pieces include a dress signed by Oscar De La Renta during his visit to the Hudson's Bay Vancouver store in the 1990s.

The Little Black Dress is hailed as one of the major fashion innovations of the 20th century. Initially modest for daytime wear, it transformed into a symbol of sophistication and elegance when paired with luxurious evening wear accessories.

“We are grateful to Hudson's Bay Vancouver for providing a platform to celebrate this cultural phenomenon, allowing us to share its rich heritage with the community,” Sayers said.

“This collaboration not only brings fashion's appeal to the forefront, but also serves as a platform to raise awareness of our ongoing efforts to establish an exclusive costume museum within Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Through initiatives like these, Our goal is to preserve and celebrate the art and cultural importance of fashion throughout history.”

The 'Little Black Dress' display is located on the second floor of the Hudson's Bay store in downtown Vancouver.

Brahm Kornbluth, vice president and general manager of the Hudson's Bay store in downtown Vancouver, added: “As a fashion destination in the heart of downtown Vancouver, we are so honored to partner with SMOC to bring this incredible display to our customers. “, celebrating the origins of the iconic little black dress. This exhibition brings together art, fashion, retail and history under one roof, and truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these incredible dresses up close and personal.”