Diane von Furstenberg: A Legacy of Fashion, Freedom, and Feminism at the Skirball
- Kasey Cahen
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
As Women’s History Month shines a well-deserved spotlight on trailblazing women who have redefined industries and shattered barriers, there is no better time to celebrate the legacy of Diane von Furstenberg. The new exhibit, Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion, now on view at the Skirball Cultural Center through August 31, 2025, is more than just a fashion retrospective—it is a testament to empowerment, resilience, and the transformative power of style.
The Wrap Dress That Wrapped the World
Few garments have achieved the cultural significance of the wrap dress. Created in 1974, this simple yet revolutionary piece became a symbol of independence for women across the world. Inspired by ballet wrap tops, Diane von Furstenberg merged elegance with practicality, designing a dress that was versatile, comfortable, and effortlessly chic. In its heyday, the wrap dress was sold at an accessible price point ($86 in 1974), making it a wardrobe staple for working women, celebrities, and first ladies alike.
At the Skirball, visitors can explore the origins of the iconic wrap dress through original garments, sketches, and fabric swatches that tell the story of how a single design became a global phenomenon. More than just fashion, the dress became a statement: women could have it all—career, family, and personal style—without compromising comfort or confidence.
LA Living: Where Fashion Meets Culture
Los Angeles has long been a hub for reinvention, where creativity and culture collide to push boundaries. Hosting this exhibit in the heart of LA makes perfect sense—after all, this is a city where fashion is more than just clothing; it’s an expression of identity, a celebration of freedom, and a reflection of diverse stories.
Von Furstenberg herself embodies the American Dream, arriving in the U.S. as an immigrant and building an empire that continues to empower women. The Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion exhibition explores not just her success in fashion, but also her deep-rooted commitment to philanthropy and advocacy. LA’s dynamic energy mirrors her ethos—bold, forward-thinking, and always evolving.
A Story of Resilience and Influence
Beyond the clothes, the exhibit delves into Diane von Furstenberg’s remarkable personal history. As the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, she grew up with an innate sense of resilience and determination. Her mother, just 18 months after being liberated from a Nazi concentration camp, gave birth to Diane and raised her to be fearless and independent. This upbringing profoundly shaped von Furstenberg’s approach to life and business, leading her to champion women’s rights and support initiatives that uplift female leaders worldwide.
Her impact extends far beyond fashion. In 2010, she founded the DVF Awards to honor women who exhibit leadership and courage in their respective fields. In 2019, she spearheaded a $100 million fundraising campaign for the Statue of Liberty Museum, reinforcing her dedication to celebrating freedom and opportunity. The Skirball’s exhibition thoughtfully showcases this aspect of her life, offering visitors an inspiring look at how personal history shapes purpose.
What to Expect at the Exhibit
This immersive experience is divided into four sections:
The Wrap Dress: Showcasing the origins and evolution of von Furstenberg’s signature piece alongside
fashion pioneers like Donna Karan and Madame Vionnet.
Inspiration and Celebration: Exploring her use of nature, art, and freedom in design, featuring collaborations with artists like Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock.
The American Dream: Chronicling her rise in the fashion industry and her groundbreaking approach to marketing, which involved personally traveling across the U.S. to connect with women.
WeAr(e)Able Stories: A nod to her commitment to female empowerment and philanthropy, highlighting the DVF Awards and her global initiatives.
An Interactive Fashion Experience
For those who want to engage beyond the exhibits, the Skirball is offering hands-on experiences that bring fashion to life. Visitors can attend live fashion sketching sessions on Thursdays and Saturdays, where they can create their own sketches and observe artists at work. Additionally, docent-led tours provide deeper insights into the history and meaning behind von Furstenberg’s designs and legacy.
A Must-See for Fashion and Culture Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a fashion aficionado, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates stories of strength and reinvention, Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion is an exhibit not to be missed. It’s a celebration of a woman who has dedicated her life to designing more than just clothes—she has designed a movement.
General admission tickets to the Skirball Cultural Center grant access to all exhibitions, including this one, with free admission on Thursdays. Step into the world of DVF, and walk away not just inspired but empowered.
