The Battle of Versailles

In 1973, a groundbreaking fashion show at the Palace of Versailles pitted the best of French haute couture against a bold new wave of American designers. This event, intended as a fundraiser, became a pivotal moment where American talent, particularly its diverse models, challenged the established European fashion world. Author Robin Givhan details the behind-the-scenes drama, the unexpected triumph of the American contingent, and how this single night reshaped fashion and influenced discussions on race, gender, and economics for decades.