Splash out on a masterpiece

Splash Out on a Masterpiece. The Financial Times. 04.12.08. 

excerpted text:

"Fashion does art history, using clothes as a canvas. From impressionist flowers to art nouveau illustrations and broad Rothko brushstrokes, the museum is the muse."

"In a world where trends appear and disappear like pop-up stores and a recession threatens, how to gauge what will inflame our desire and open our wallets? Like Hollywood, which treads on supposedly safe grounds with film re-makes and sequels, fashion has turned to original works for inspiration. You may not be able to afford the painting, but you can compromise with the dress. Love Monet? Try Dolce & Gabbana. Morris Louis? Go for Fendi. Even betterm this type of shopping allows customers the two-for-one deal of high-culture cred. You don't need to open your mouth to demonstrate your knowledge; your dress will do the talking for you."

"SInce these arty numbers cab cost anywhere from 250 pounds for a Marni skirt to 16,956 pounds for a Dolce & Gabbana show-stopper, it's no small question. And yes, as with any piece of art, if you can't afford the real thing, a reproduction can still give you a taste of the glory. High street alternatives, especially accessories (think scarves) are an option. On the other hand, an original will always hold its value, but fashion is not the art market, so taking the future potential of a piece into consideration is perhaps over-thinking the matter. On the other hand, is it better to buy a Matisse, or  a Matisse print? Enough said."