Sports and fashion come together in Fashion on the Move #2 exhibition at Palais Galliera in Paris

In a new exhibition at Palais Galliera, Miu Miu reinterprets beachwear with a twist, featuring a graphic terry robe and sequin swim cap. The exhibition explores the evolution of women’s sportswear throughout history, highlighting the changing relationship between the female body and societal standards of beauty. From promenade dresses in the 19th century to sportswear in the 20th and 21st centuries, the show delves into the impact of technology on the development of fabrics and the influence of sports on fashion culture.

In the 19th century, women often wore promenade dresses for outdoor activities, while hats were encouraged during physical activities for health reasons. The exhibition at Palais Galliera explores the history of sportswear, focusing specifically on how women were allowed to dress and engage in physical activities over time. The changing standards of beauty and sociological changes that have influenced fashion over the past three centuries form a central theme of the exhibition, shedding light on women’s emancipation and changing attitudes towards the female body.

Technology has played a major role in the advancement of sportswear, with newly developed fabrics improving the flexibility and durability of sportswear. Coco Chanel, who would revolutionize fashion, was inspired by these innovations in fabric development. As the 20th century progressed, clothing moved closer to the body, becoming a second skin that provided both comfort and mobility. Ensembles from various designers spanning the period from the 1910s to the 21st century are on display, illustrating the evolution of sportswear and its impact on fashion culture.

The sea and the beach are key elements in the exhibition and highlight the changing perceptions of what women were allowed to wear and do in society. The show explores women’s empowerment through the lens of sportswear and shows how attitudes towards the female body have changed over time. From early designs for cycling, golf and swimming to contemporary sportswear from brands such as Miu Miu and Nike x Sacai, the exhibition documents the evolution of women’s sportswear and its influence on fashion culture.

The exhibition at Palais Galliera underlines the role of class and privilege in shaping early sportswear and how economic access continues to influence fashion today. Through a diverse range of ensembles representing different eras in fashion history, the show highlights the impact of technology on the development of fabrics and the evolution of sportswear. From 19th century promenade dresses to modern sportswear, the exhibition provides a comprehensive overview of the changing relationship between the female body and societal standards of beauty in the context of sports and fashion culture.