Iris van Herpen makes gowns that look grown rather than sewn, drawing on biomimicry, fractal math and neuroscience, and they have been worn by Beyoncé, Björk, Cate Blanchett, Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande. More than 140 of her couture pieces sit beside coral, fossils, skeletons and works by James Turrell, Tara Donovan and Nick Knight, with a soundscape by Salvador Breed. It is the most photogenic fashion show in the city.
What to expect
The exhibition moves from ocean depths to outer space, with sections on water, motion, sound and light. Expect sculptural gowns under dramatic lighting, natural history specimens placed in dialogue with the designs, rare archival materials and an immersive sound design.
Good to know
- Timed tickets are required, so book ahead for weekends
- Members can enter without booking a timed slot
- The Eastern Parkway–Brooklyn Museum stop on the 2/3 is right outside
- Located on the fifth floor in the Schapiro Wing and Cantor Gallery
- Pair with Keisha Scarville's plaza installation, which closes soon
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Common questions
Do I need a separate ticket?
Yes. It is a ticketed exhibition requiring a timed ticket; it is free and untimed for Museum Members.
Is this the first time the show is in North America?
Yes. The Brooklyn Museum stop is the North American debut.





