From bustles to metallic velvet, the Phildelphia Museum of Art is bringing 250 years of fashion out of the closet. The retrospective features women's and men's clothing from top European and American designers, as well as regional dress from around the world. Highlights include a complete Japanese geisha costume, Princess Grace of Monaco's 1956 wedding gown, and Princess Diana's white sequined "Elvis dress."

The influence of visual arts comes through in many of the displays. A silk evening dress from the 1850s exemplifies the textile designs that, at the time, were often copied from prints of well-known artists. A 1923 Paul Poiret dress reflects the fascination with all things Egyptian after the discovery of King Tut's tomb. And Elsa Schiaparelli's bold Harlequin Coat (1938-39) demonstrates her experimental approach to design, bolstered by collaborations with artists such as Salvador Dali.