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Fashion, Textiles and Craftsmanship: Exhibitions to Discover in Paris This Summer 2026

Under Every Seam – Musée Postal

The Musée Postal is hosting an original exhibition dedicated to the history of workwear, through postal uniforms as well as garments worn by many other professions. Spanning from 1786 to the present day, the exhibition traces the evolution of professional clothing and demonstrates how it reflects the social, technological and cultural transformations of each era.

For fashion students, this exhibition offers a fascinating perspective on the function of clothing beyond aesthetics. Postal uniforms, military attire, workers’ garments and flight attendant uniforms reveal how textile design responds to practical, identity and representational needs. The exhibition also explores highly contemporary themes such as the evolution of women's workwear, inclusion issues and sustainability challenges in uniform design.

Date & Location: From April 8 to September 22, 2026, at Musée Postal – Paris 15th arrondissement. Free admission for visitors under 26.

 

Revealing Femininity, Fashion and Appearances in the 18th Century – Musée Cognacq-Jay

Created in collaboration with the Palais Galliera, this exhibition explores the role of fashion in shaping feminine identity during the Age of Enlightenment. Through period garments, accessories, paintings and drawings, the exhibition highlights the aesthetic codes that structured 18th-century society.

The exhibition examines how women used clothing to express status, construct their image and respond to the expectations of their time. It also highlights the close relationship between fashion and social representation.

For students interested in fashion design, creative direction or brand image, this exhibition provides valuable insight into how clothing reflects an era and influences social behaviour.

Date & Location: From March 25 to September 20, 2026, at Musée Cognacq-Jay – Paris 3rd arrondissement.

 

Pomellato, The Revolutionary Jeweller – Palais de Tokyo

From June 24 to July 20, 2026, the Palais de Tokyo is hosting a free exhibition dedicated to the Italian jewellery house Pomellato. Founded in Milan in 1967, the brand has established itself as one of the most innovative names in contemporary jewellery through its creative approach and modern vision of adornment.

Through its iconic creations, the exhibition retraces nearly sixty years of history and highlights the various revolutions championed by the house: design, colour, craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Beyond jewellery itself, the exhibition demonstrates how a brand builds its visual identity and narrative through photography, communication and creative direction. A particularly inspiring perspective for students interested in Fashion Business, fashion marketing or artistic direction.

Date & Location: From June 24 to July 20, 2026, at Palais de Tokyo – Paris 16th arrondissement. Free admission upon reservation.

 

Weaving, Embroidering, Enhancing – Palais Galliera

The Palais Galliera celebrates the fashion crafts and explores the ornamental techniques that bring garments and accessories to life, from the 18th century to the present day.

Through more than 350 works (including garments, accessories, photographs, textile samples and tools) the exhibition showcases the richness of techniques such as weaving, embroidery, lace-making, dyeing, textile printing and passementerie.

The exhibition also shines a light on the often-overlooked artisans who contribute to fashion excellence, including embroiderers, textile designers, feather workers and floral accessory makers.

For fashion design and creation students, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to discover the behind-the-scenes craftsmanship involved in garment production and to better understand the value of artisanal expertise within today’s fashion industry.

Date & Location: From December 13, 2025 to October 18, 2026, at Palais Galliera – Fashion Museum (Paris 16th arrondissement). Free admission for visitors under 18.
 

Nurturing Creativity Beyond the Classroom

Understanding the history of clothing, analysing how image and identity are constructed, or discovering the creative innovations of leading fashion houses are all experiences that enrich the perspective and professional culture of future fashion professionals.

At IFA Paris, students are encouraged to multiply cultural experiences, develop their curiosity and deepen their understanding through direct contact with exhibitions, industry professionals and institutions that shape the fashion industry of today and tomorrow.

Ready to turn your passion for fashion into a career? Discover IFA Paris programmes in Fashion Design & Creation and Fashion Business & Marketing.