Step into the world of legendary designer Diane von Furstenberg with a powerful and inspiring afternoon at the Skirball Cultural Center on Sunday May 18th.
“Woman Before Fashion” isn’t just a fashion exhibit — it’s a visual love letter to empowerment, innovation, and self-expression through style. From the iconic wrap dress to her fearless journey as a woman in the fashion world, this exhibit offers an intimate look at how DVF used fashion as a tool for liberation and identity.
Our afternoon begins with an immersive, hour-long, docent-led tour that dives deep into Diane’s creative evolution — featuring vintage garments, archival imagery, and untold stories of a woman who reshaped what it means to dress — and live — boldly.
Following the tour, guests will have the chance to reflect and connect over a delicious, sit-down lunch at the beloved Zeidler’s Café. Nestled within the Skirball’s warm and welcoming space, Zeidler’s is known for its cozy ambiance and seasonal, market-fresh offerings.
Whether you're a DVF devotee, a lover of meaningful design, or someone who believes in the power of women’s voices, the experience invites you to explore the rich intersection of fashion, feminism, and art. Originally curated by the Fashion & Lace Museum in Brussels, Belgium — von Furstenberg’s hometown — this exhibition is as much about personal evolution as it is about fashion history.
Attendees will learn:
✨ More about the inspiration behind Diane von Furstenberg’s iconic designs
✨ How the wrap dress came to symbolize a global movement of women’s empowerment
✨ How DVF’s immigrant journey and personal history influenced her creativity and commitment to giving back
All tickets include museum entry, the guided tour and 1 lunch entree, 1 fountain beverage + tax/tip. Any additional food or drink can be paid separately on-site or to the event host.
Event to be guest hosted by Art-full LA ambassador Ritsa Panagis.
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Event Details:
11:50 AM | Meet at the entrance to the museum for the 12PM tour
Skirball Cultural Center – Museum Galleries | 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd.
1:00 PM | Lunch
Zeidler’s Café (Located inside the Skirball Cultural Center)
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Tickets:
Full experience with lunch & tour: $50 per person early bird 5/4; $55 thereafter
Parking:
Parking at the Skirball is free and is available in two places: the Skirball’s North Parking garage, located underground at the north end of the Skirball's main driveway, approximately 150 yards north of our Main Entrance. Parking is also available in the East Parking garage, located across Sepulveda Blvd.