Italian Style in Context

Brought to you by Hopkins at Home
Thursday, April 23 – Thursday, May 21
Live Lecture
5 weeks
Recorded Lectures
“Italian style” has become a synonym of exquisite taste, class, and elegance thanks to its quality and craftsmanship. This mini-course will explore some of the major factors that contributed to the rise of the Made in Italy as an iconic design all around the world. In each meeting will analyze trends, clothing, and style not only in a historical context, but also through a critical apparatus that will include themes related to gender, the culture of power, and politics. The topics explored in class will range from Renaissance to the rise of Milan as one of the capitals of Fashion, including a look into the fascinating path of designers like Elsa Schiaparelli and her relationship with Surrealism.
Each week, Leo will share a short lecture followed by class discussion. Recommended readings will sometimes be shared by email with students the week prior to class.