The Battle of Versailles: A moment of Black Glamour

    The Battle of Versailles is such a pivotal and revolutionary moment in fashion history. This event marked the beginning of diversity and inclusion among designers and models in the industry. Eleanor Lambert met with Gerald Van der Kemp, the palace curator, to discuss ways to raise money for the palace's restoration. Their meeting led to the organization of this event. The Battle of Versailles Fashion Show took place on November 28, 1973 in the Palace of Versailles. The fashion show played a major role in the development of fashion during that period and continues to have an impact on fashion today.

This historic fashion show displayed designs by five competing designers from France and America. During this time, French designers were the most dominant forces in fashion; the Battle of Versailles helped introduce American designers in a significant way. The well-known French designers were Hubert de Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent,  Marc Bohan (Christian Dior), Pierre Cardin, and Emanuel Ungaro. The representation of the American designers were Anne Klein, Stephen Burrows, Oscar de la Renta, Bill Blass, and Halston. Among the designers, Stephen Burrows was the youngest and the only Black designer in the show, presenting a collection. While the disco era was in full swing, he was known for graphic color blocking and his creative use of matte jersey fabric. Burrows was one of the first Black fashion designers to sell internationally and establish a high-fashion clientele.

Stephen Burrow's collection at the Battle of Versailles

Stephen Burrows

A total of 36 American models were hired for the Versailles show, and 10 of them were black. Billie Blair, Pat Cleveland, Ramona Saunders, Bethann Hardison, Charlene Dash, Amina Warsuma, Norma Jean Darden, Barbara Jackson, Alva Chinn, and Jennifer Brice were black runway models selected by the American designers. A beautiful performance was rendered by these black women who impacted the French Fashion establishment as well as brought the clothes to life. The Battle of Versailles featured the largest contingent of African American models in a major multiracial fashion show. These models promoted femininity and style. Not only was this a monumental day due to the collaboration between French and American designers, but women of color were given the opportunity to participate.

Bethann Hardison & Ramona Saunders modeling Burrows at Versailles Fashion Show