For some frightful delights, the “Cabinet of Curiosities” features a crème tattooed top hat by Justin Smith where a flying bat leaps out of the painted pigskin. However, it’s in “Strange Beauty” where one can fall in love with a gown that’s perfect for a sudden demise. A flowing evening dress by Rodarte envelopes the model with sheer white, crimson, and charcoal layers, reminiscent of an open wound. It comes as no surprise to discover that designers Kate and Laura Mulleavy were inspired by Japanese horror movies and wanted the dyes to look “like blood on water.”

As expected, some pieces have an unsettling, grim past that’ll forever haunt viewers. One of the exhibition’s major highlights is an Alexander McQueen strapless evening dress made of black and green taffeta, glass, and leather. The silk gown, adorned with a giant glittery cross, pays tribute to Elizabeth Howe, one of McQueen’s ancestors who was executed during the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. There’s also a Christian Dior blood-red garment with a matching giant belt, creating a cinched waist only seen in corsets. Embroidered on the dress is an image of sadist French author Marquis de Sade bearing the question, “Is it not by murder that France is free today?” Inspired by the bloody French Revolution, designer John Galliano reminds viewers that the acts of man are the most horrifying of all evils.

Demonic creatures, yellowing ribcage corsets, and cloaks for the immortal are all present in FIT’s exhibition, where creepy couture isn’t just about fishnets and spider web skirts. From romantic garbs to futuristic looks, it successfully encourages attendees to break the rules and go against societal expectations. After all, who wouldn’t want to look both alluring and slimming in black?

Exhibition until 21 February 2009.

Pages: 1 2