Students at Johnson County Community College (JCCC) have brought a piece of fashion history to life on their campus. As part of their History of Fashion course, students recreated the legendary 1973 ‘Battle of Versailles’ fashion show, an event that marked a pivotal moment in fashion history where American sportswear challenged the established luxury of French couture.
Campus Exhibition Celebrates Fashion Heritage
Under the guidance of Professor Britt Benjamin, students were divided into groups to curate displays representing either American or French fashion. These displays were designed to reflect the spirit of the original event, with American designs emphasizing modernity and movement, and French designs showcasing craftsmanship and luxury. The students selected garments from the JCCC Historical Fashion Collection, which includes over 2,200 pieces dating back to the 1850s.
Each group acted as museum curators, creating educational exhibitions that engaged the campus community. They researched the designers and their influences, providing context on how historical events shaped fashion trends. The displays featured mannequins dressed in selected garments, accompanied by educational plaques created by the students.
Study Trip to Paris Enhances Learning
To deepen their understanding, students participated in a faculty-led study trip to Paris at the end of May 2026. This trip allowed them to visit significant fashion landmarks such as the Palace of Versailles and Le Bon Marché, the world’s oldest department store. They also explored exhibitions featuring iconic designers like Azzedine Alaïa and Christian Dior, providing a tangible connection to their studies.
Professor Benjamin emphasized the value of these immersive experiences, stating, “The entire city of Paris became the students’ fashion history textbook.” Such hands-on learning opportunities are designed to engage students beyond the classroom and prepare them for future academic and professional success.
JCCC’s commitment to global engagement and practical learning experiences is evident in programs like this, which empower students to explore their fields in depth. For more information about JCCC’s Fashion Merchandising and Design program, interested individuals can visit jccc.edu/fashion.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
