<http://schema.org/articleBody>
"While the Met looked to the '70s for spring's Punk: Chaos to Couture exhibit, the next Costume Institute show will reach back even further (and get even fancier) for a retrospective of legendary couturier Charles James.\n\nNever heard of him? There are a few reasons for that. First of all, the height of his career occurred in the '40s and '50s. More notably though, he didn't leave a namesake fashion house behind upon his death in 1978. But don't be fooled: The British-born James became one of America's most influential designers after arriving in New York City following stints in London and Paris. Exposed to (though never formally trained in) the European tradition of haute couture, James is known for his iconic sculptural gowns, as well as revolutionary design techniques that are still in use today.\n\nThe exhibit will showcase nearly 100 of his pieces, highlighting his obsessively scientific approach to construction. There will also be a gallery dedicated to James's life, utilizing archival items and multimedia elements to tell his fascinating story. We've been jonesing for a serious throwback show ever since 2007's Paul Poiret exhibit, and it looks like we'll get our wish when Charles James: Beyond Fashion opens on May 8."^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.teenvogue.com/story/charles-james-costume-institute-met>