The Story of Newark Fashion: Atelier to Runway @The Newark Museum

Installation view of The Story of Newark Fashion: Atelier to Runway @Newark Museum

With a glimpse of the iconic New York City skyline, the vibrant streets of Newark, New Jersey breed sophistication, craftsmanship and culture. In the mid-20th century, Newark's fashion repertoire emerges with designer Wesley Tank and milliner Emily Miles. Their innovative work paves the way for a burgeoning fashion scene and visionaries like Shavi Lewis, Narcisco Rodriguez and Jerry Grant. The Newark Museum's new exhibit, The Story of Newark Fashion: Atelier to Runway celebrates the evolution of the city's fashion scene, tracing its roots and paying tribute to its pioneers. Keep reading for a look inside... 

Introductory Wall

The garment factories and workshops rooted in Newark's industrial past earns the city's reputation as a hub of artistry. Eleven designers with Newark connections are featured in clusters, with a festive runway as the centerpiece showcasing nine bold styles by Stephen Burrows. The spotlight is on Newark as the exhibit connects the stories of its community, with the narrative of the global fashion world. The Story of Newark Fashion: Atelier to Runway is guest-curated by Kristen J. Owens, a historian of Black fashion, with Tracey "Africa" Norman--the first African-American trans woman model--serving as curatorial advisor. Visit this thoughtfully well-edited exhibit by June 2.

Exhibit entryway

Ball gowns of tulle and ankara by Melody Asherman

Outfits by Marco Hall,  owner of MH302 on Halsey Street

View of the runway installation

Pieces by Tracey "Africa" Norman 

Dresses by Shavi Lewis

Styles by Brownmill Atelier

Gowns by Tyrone Chabis

Dress by Narcisco Rodriguez that First Lady Michelle Obama wore on election night in 2008

Designs by Narcisco Rodriguez, born 1961 in Newark, NJ!