The Decorative Arts Calendar of Events: March

March is upon us and although that does conjure up thoughts of spring, in reality, snow is still in this week’s forecast. So get out of the house, because how many snow days can you really spend watching Mad Men, and go enjoy some art instead.

See

“Scandal Sandals & Lady Slippers: A History of Delman Shoes” opening March 9th -April 3rd. Museum at F.I.T. This exhibition will celebrate the 90th anniversary of Delman Shoes and also marks the 25th anniversary of FIT’s Fashion and Textile Studies graduate program. As the first exhibition devoted to the history of the brand, Scandal Sandals will explore and reveal the company’s renowned style, advertising and craftsmanship. The objects on display, dating roughly between 1926 and 2007, will chronicle the company’s rich and creative past. Delman shoes were worn by many movie stars and distinguished women of society, including Jacqueline Kennedy, Joan Crawford, Marilyn Monroe, and Marlene Dietrich. The company’s name will forever be associated with these iconic women.

Hear

“Thom Browne in Conversation with Fred Dennis”, Monday, March 22, 7-9 pm, Katie Murphy Amphitheatre, Fred P. Pomerantz Art and Design Center, F.I.T., first floor.
Thom Browne, is one of the best known tailors in the world, named the 2006 CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year, he designs a collection for Brooks Brothers called Black Fleece for both men and women. His line of men’s jewelry for Harry Winston was launched in 2007, and his men’s line for Moncler, Gamme Bleu, debuted in January 2009, in Milan.

“Tommy Hilfiger in Conversation with Richard Bradley, Editor-in-Chief, Worth Magazine” Wednesday, March 3, 7pm, Florence Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street.
Trendsetter Tommy Hilfiger, a twenty-year veteran of the industry and leader of a global fashion empire, will speak about the intriguing business of creating an international fashion brand.

“Marc Jacobs in Conversation with Patricia Mears, Deputy Director, The Museum at FIT” Monday, March 22, 7pm, Florence Gould Hall 55 East 59th Street.
Marc Jacobs will discuss the evolution of fashion designers into stars and the relationship between fashion and Hollywood.

Verdi’s “Attila”, March 3rd- March 27th .The premiere of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera, “Attila”, at the Metropolitan Opera, is sure to be a delight for Opera aficionados. But it is also a treat for design enthusiasts as Muccia Prada is designing the costumes and the sets are by Jacques Herzog & Pierre de Meuron. To view Prada’s sketches for the costumes, visit the Met Opera website.

Meet and Greet

“Pucci Collaborations: Ralph Pucci and Robert Bristow”, Tuesday, March 2, 6-8 pm Katie Murphy Amphitheatre, Fred P. Pomerantz Art and Design Center, F.I.T., first floor
Ralph Pucci will begin this fascinating evening with a presentation of his book, Show, and will discuss the influence that fashion, art, and design have on each other. He will be joined by renowned architect Robert Bristow, who will talk about his design philosophy that focuses on simplicity, strength and clarity. A signing of Show will follow the lecture.

“Beth Levine Shoes ~ Helene Verin”, Wednesday, March 10, 6-8 pm, Katie Murphy Amphitheatre, Fred P. Pomerantz Art and Design Center, F.I.T., first floor
Join Helene Verin for a look at the iconic footwear of fashion innovator Beth Levine, who introduced the mule and the stilletto to America. Jacqueline Kennedy wore Levine’s sensational shoes, as have Barbara Streisand and Shirley MacLaine. A signing of Verin’s book, Beth Levine Shoes, follows the lecture.

Fairs

The Armory Show, March 4-7, Pier 92 & 94 (12th Ave. at 55th Str.). Thurs-Sat, 12:00 p.m.-8 p.m. Sunday 12:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. I normally do not post information on shows which are strictly dedicated to the visual arts but some dealers specializing in the decorative arts have joined the roster for this art fair, in its 11th year, which is considered one of the leading fair’s dedicated to 20th c. and 21st c. art.

Bid

Both Sotheby’s and Christie’s are holding their spring auctions dedicated to 20th c. decorative arts this month. Check out the Christie’s sale on March 16th and the Sotheby’s sale on March 17th.