The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology is a treasure hidden in broad daylight. While the museum is critically acclaimed, it remains under the radar compared to the much more editorialized Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. F.I.T. is an incredible institution that counts many famous fashion designers as alumni. This alumni bank has led to an internship program so rich in resources and connections, it is hard to compare with any other program of its kind. 
The current exhibit : GOTHIC - Dark Glamour is a perfect example of the stunning execution the museum and its director and chief curator Valerie Steele is known for. 
They say the Devil is in the details, and if that is true - this show is pure Evil! From the moment you enter the underground gallery - you are taken to a dark place - both literally and figuratively. 
Your eyes adjust to the beautiful darkness and these exquisite pieces of fashion come to life. Organized in creative displays that do justice to every fashion piece on loan - this show takes you through the concept of "The Gothic" and how it carved out a niche in the fashion world.
It is no wonder that the heavyweights loan looks to F.I.T. without question. Major Houses like Chanel, Valentino, Dior, Givenchy and more are on display. GOTHIC - Dark Glamour runs through February 21st, 2009.
Fashion Institute of Technology / 27th Street at 7th Avenue / Open to the public / Admission is free
Tues - Fri Noon - 8pm , Saturday 10am - 5pm. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and legal holidays.