A glittering, Byzantine-style mosaic dress by Dolce & Gabbana is probably not your first thought when it comes to couture, unless of course, you’re reminiscing about Rihanna’s 2018 Met Gala debut inspired by the Pope. But now you can get a taste of religious-imagery-turned-high-fashion at The Museum of the Bible’s first-ever fashion show, featuring curated pieces by McLean resident and stylist Lauren A. Rothman, on Sept. 17.
This post originally appeared in our September 2019 print issue. Like what you read? Subscribe to our e-newsletters for content sent directly to your inbox.
Having Rothman—who is the author of the aptly-named Style Bible—curate the show was “a sign,” says Linda Koldenhoven, chair of the Women’s Advisory Board for the museum, who’s working in partnership with the Couture Circle in DC in an effort to bring more fashion-focused events to the nation’s capital.
The fashion show, on a 66-foot runway in the museum’s ballroom, will feature models wearing about 40 looks, including exclusive pieces from Versace, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Givency and Dolce & Gabbana.
Rothman says it was fun to acquire pieces and create a one-of-a-kind show that aligns with her vision. “Anything that’s disruptive to fashion is what’s interesting to me,” she says. The coexistence of the pieces, some with bejeweled crucifixes and other Byzantine-inspired accessories, also appealed to her. For the finale, Anthony Vecchione, designer of Chiara Boni, has created a one-of-a-kind biblically inspired couture that will be donated back to the museum for future visitors to enjoy. // Museum of the Bible: 400 Fourth St. SW, Washington, DC; Sept. 17, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; $200 individual, $2,000-$2,500 per table
