ulian Raby, The Dame Jillian Sackler Director of the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the Freer Gallery of Art and Mazza Gallerie presented a special book signing and talk with author Andre Leon Talley, Editor at Large of Vogue Magazine as he debuted his newest book, Oscar de la Renta: His Legendary World of Style. Pulitzer Prize award-winning fashion critic Robin Givhan joined Mr. Talley on stage for a spirited conversation about the life and work of Mr. de la Renta. The evening was full of Haute surprises including the presentation of the Oscar de la Renta Fall /Winter 2015/2016 collection in conjunction with Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie.

Oscar’s spirit lives on the incredible house he founded; in those who knew him and who benefitted from his acts of generosity, love, and friendship; and in his vision, which was, and remains, so vibrant, so beautiful, so elegant and optimistic迫Anna Wintour, from the Foreword.

In October 2014 the fashion world lost a treasured luminary in Oscar de la Renta whose passing was mourned not only devotees of his couture and ready to wear, but by his many dear friends and colleagues—in and out of the fashion business—and, of course, his beloved family.

In a career that spanned six decades, the acclaimed fashion designer, renowned for his old-world charm, impeccable taste, and celebrated lifestyle, dressed first ladies from Jacqueline Kennedy to Michelle Obama, and celebrities from Beyoncé and Sarah Jessica Parker to Oprah, Aerin Lauder, and Huma Abedin, who penned an appreciation included in the book.

Born in the Dominican Republic in 1932, de la Renta left for Madrid at nineteen to study art, where he rose to prominence as a sketch artist for newspapers and fashion houses. From his apprenticeship under Cristóbal Balenciaga to his eponymous collections, de la Renta applied the highest standards of French couture to his work. With classic lines elevated with luxurious materials and perhaps a dramatic Flamenco-inspired flourish that reflected his deep connection to his roots, de la Renta was committed to crafting garments in which women famously felt confident, beautiful and comfortable.