SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film is now showing the "Guo Pei: Couture Beyond" exhibit. This exhibit explores the creations of renowned Chinese fashion designer, Guo Pei. The exhibition showcases more than 30 of Guo Pei’s most intricately designed gowns in addition to a selection of other dresses, jackets, and accessories.

Rafael Gomes, director of SCAD fashion exhibitions, led my husband and I through the exhibit and conveyed the grand history of this world-renowned designer and her rise to global recognition. Gomes came to SCAD FASH from Vivienne Westwood, where he held creative roles. Atlanta is fortunate to have a true fashion insider like him.

I was blown away by the lavish construction, striking details, and mix of modern and ancient fashion designs. Guo Pei’s designs captured the traditions, mythology, and artistry of China throughout the years.  One of my favorite pieces was a wedding gown made entirely of pearls, all together weighing over 50 pounds.

I learned that some of the Chinese fashion styles brought to live in Guo Pei's designs were drawn from the Chinese aristocracy. These fashions were forbidden under the People's Republic of China. So some of these styles have not been replicated since before the 1950s. Pei recruited artisans from the far reaches of China who had retained the skillful craftsmanship used in here exquisitely opulent garments.

For the past 20 years, Guo Pei has dressed celebrities, royalty, and political elite. One of Guo Pei’s most celebrated design moments was when she designed a show-stopping yellow cape worn by Rihanna at the 2015 Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Gala. Guo Pei’s fashion designs have also been shown in major publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Women’s Wear Daily, and The New York Times.

I'm excited to see that SCAD FASH brings truly cosmopolitan fashion to the Atlanta community. This museum should be in all the guide books as a local gem, and local Atlantas must stop by! The new fashion museum is attached to SCAD Atlanta, and has become a great addition to the city. I am excited to see what SCAD FASH has in store for the future.