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Vanessa Friedman of The New York Times declared 2023 “the year of the power sleeve”—and the trend shows no sign of slowing. In The Museum at FIT’s Fashion and Textile History Gallery through Aug. 25, visitors can revel in exquisite pleats and ruffles, voluminous puffs and folds, and other expressive arm embellishments. Nearly 80 pieces from the museum’s permanent collection, by Balenciaga, Tom Ford, Schiaparelli, Vivienne Westwood, and many other designers, are on display in Statement Sleeves, organized by Colleen Hill, curator of costume and accessories.

Rudi Gernreich, black and cream wool dress, circa 1967. Gift of Ruth Ford.

Christian Dior (Marc Bohan), dress, peach silk crepe, feathers and rhinestones, fall 1968, France, gift of Mrs. Linda Mitchell.

Madame Grès, evening gown (detail), navy blue silk taffeta, circa 1980, France, gift of Mrs. Mildred Hilson.

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