THE Savannah College of Art and Design present document André Leon Talley: Style is eternal at SCAD FASH Lacostemarking a major exhibition dedicated to his life and work André Leon Talley. The exhibition opened on April 1, 2026, following previous presentations at BIG AMOUNT museums in Atlanta and Savannah; This iteration introduces Talley’s archive to France for the first time, drawing on his bequest of clothing, accessories, photographs and personal material now housed in SCAD Permanent Collection.
Edited by Rafael Brower Gomezthe exhibition brings together couture, ready-to-wear and bespoke pieces from Talley’s wardrobe. The selection includes works by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Nicolas Ghesquière for Balenciaga, John Galliano for Dior, Ralph Rucci bag, Roger Vivier, Yves Saint Laurent, Charvetand Hermes. These clothes reflect Talley’s relationships with leading designers and his role in the global fashion system. The presentation includes looks worn during important public appearances, including Met Gala moments and engagements in the front row, offering a direct view of his presence in the most visible spaces of fashion.
The exhibition expands beyond the garments through a range of archival material. Displayed alongside the clothing are artwork, photographs, letters and books from Talley’s personal collection. Custom mannequins based on SCAD alum sculpture Steven Hayes they present the gaze, adding a sculptural dimension to the installation. The exhibit also includes dresses worn by figures from Talley’s circle, including; Anna Wintour, Renee Zellwegerand Lorraine Santo Domingo.
Accompanying catalogue, production SCAD University Press and published by Rizzoli Electaextends to the exhibition material. The publication features contributions from the likes of Anna Wintour, Diane von Furstenberg, Terry Agins, Tom Ford, Darren Walker, Carolina Herreraand Pat Cleveland. Creative direction by Antoine Gregory and new photo from Allen Cooley shape the visual language of the book, which also includes archival images from Jonathan Becker and Robert Ferrer. The catalog offers additional access to Talley’s private archive and his role in fashion and culture.
Talley’s connection to French culture informed his career and intellectual development. He studied French literature in North Carolina Central University and later completed a master’s degree in Brown University. He began his career in New York under Diana Vreeland at Costume Institute of The Metropolitan Art Museum before going into journalism. As head of the Paris office for Women’s everyday clothesreferred to French fashion with a distinctive voice. In the late 1980s, he became its first black creative director American Vogue and later served as editor-in-chief from 1998 to 2013. His work shaped editorial practice and expanded representation in the industry.
Talley maintained a long association with SCAD, where he supported students and contributed to the university’s fashion show program. He served in SCAD Board of Directors from 2002 to 2014 and received the SCAD Lifetime Achievement at the Fashion Award in 2001, an honor that later bore his name. His involvement included mentoring, public speaking, and collaborating on exhibitions that shaped SCAD’s role in design education and curatorial work.
The opening at Lacoste is part of SCAD’s Spring 2026 programming, which includes exhibitions, installations and presentations across the site. André Leon Talley: Le Style est Éternel remains at SCAD FASH Lacoste until October 31, 2026.
