Visit from Mod’Art International's Director of Fashion Design

Professor Xavier Chaumette

FIDM Students were treated to a fascinating lecture and Q&A session from expert Xavier Chaumette, Co-Director of Fashion Design at Mod'Art International in Paris. He gave an overview of the history of fashion from 18th century to contemporary times with a focus on the evolving role of women in society and its impact on clothing. (Did you know, for instance, that Coco Chanel introduced the first jackets for women that had pockets?)

"Xavier has collaborated with FIDM for over 20 years on special projects and serves as a guide during FIDM's Study Tours to Paris, providing insight into the history of the city as well as where--and where not--to shop," explains FIDM's International Director Lanie Denslow. Xavier is also the author of The History of the Women’s Suit and Textiles for a Century of Fashion and a contributing editor to the International Dictionary of Fashion Design.