SCAD Museum of Art has unveiled a groundbreaking exhibition honoring fashion legend André Leon Talley. “André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever” showcases nearly 70 iconic looks from the late fashion titan’s personal collection. The exhibition opens across two locations, celebrating Talley’s extraordinary four-decade career in fashion.
The comprehensive display features ready-to-wear pieces, haute couture, and bespoke garments from Talley’s wardrobe. Additionally, the exhibition includes rare archives, personal mementos, and artwork from his closest friends. This marks the 10th anniversary of SCAD’s FASH Museum of Fashion + Film.
Exhibition Spans Two SCAD Museum Locations
SCAD Museum of Art in Savannah launched the exhibition on August 15, 2025. The display will remain open through January 11, 2026, allowing visitors ample time to experience Talley’s legacy. Meanwhile, SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film in Atlanta will debut its portion on October 15.
The Atlanta location will showcase the exhibition through March 1, 2026. This dual-city approach ensures maximum accessibility for fashion enthusiasts and students alike. Both museums will feature different aspects of Talley’s remarkable collection and career achievements.
Rafael Brauer Gomes, creative director of SCAD FASH museums, curated the entire exhibition. His expertise ensures visitors experience the full scope of Talley’s fashion influence. The carefully selected pieces tell the story of American fashion through Talley’s distinctive lens.
Designer Collaborations and Personal Collections Featured
The exhibition showcases pieces from renowned designers who shaped Talley’s signature style. Tom Ford, Ralph Rucci, Manolo Blahnik, and Dapper Dan contributed significant works to the display. These collaborations highlight Talley’s relationships with fashion’s most influential creators.
Personal mementos and artwork from close friends add intimate touches to the exhibition. Diane von Furstenberg and Karl Lagerfeld provided cherished items that reveal Talley’s personal connections. These pieces demonstrate how deeply Talley influenced and was influenced by fashion’s elite circle.
The curated selection includes front row moments, Met Gala ensembles, and intimate gathering outfits. Each piece represents different facets of Talley’s multifaceted career and personality. Visitors can trace his evolution from fashion editor to global style icon through these carefully chosen garments.
SCAD’s Permanent Collection Makes Exhibition Possible
SCAD’s Permanent Collection received a generous bequest of Talley’s garments and accessories. This donation made the comprehensive exhibition possible and ensures his legacy continues. The university’s commitment to preserving fashion history shines through this remarkable acquisition.
The collection includes not only clothing but also ephemera that tells Talley’s complete story. Documents, photographs, and personal items provide context for his professional achievements. These materials offer unprecedented insight into his creative process and industry relationships.
Talley’s long partnership with SCAD enriched the university’s fashion program significantly. He curated acclaimed exhibitions and brought renowned designers to share their expertise. His contributions advanced cultural dialogue while enhancing the educational experience for countless students.
Commemorative Catalogue Documents Global Impact
An accompanying exhibition catalogue celebrates Talley’s memorable global fashion impact. The publication features new photography by SCAD alumnus Allen Cooley, showcasing the exhibition pieces beautifully. Archive images from fashion documentarians Jonathen Becker and Robert Fairer provide historical context.
The catalogue includes essays, stories, and memories from colleagues who admired Talley deeply. These personal accounts reveal his larger-than-life approach to the fashion industry. Contributors share intimate details about his mentorship and influence on emerging designers and editors.
His four-decade career spanning multiple continents and fashion capitals receives thorough documentation. The catalogue serves as both exhibition companion and standalone tribute to his achievements. Fashion students and enthusiasts will treasure this comprehensive resource for years to come.
Talley’s Legacy as Fashion Mentor and Cultural Bridge
André Leon Talley championed American designers throughout his distinguished career. His advocacy helped elevate domestic talent on the global fashion stage. He served as a cultural bridge between European haute couture and American ready-to-wear innovation.
Talley’s mentorship extended beyond professional relationships to genuine personal connections with students. His SCAD partnership demonstrated his commitment to nurturing the next generation of fashion professionals. Many current industry leaders credit him with shaping their careers and perspectives.
The exhibition “Style Is Forever” perfectly captures his enduring influence on fashion culture. His boundless creativity and distinctive vision continue inspiring new generations of designers and editors. This comprehensive tribute ensures his contributions to fashion history remain visible and celebrated.
