Jan. 7th, 2025 – This past week, we transported audiences back to one of the most iconic moments in fashion history with a special screening of Battle At Versailles. This original documentary revisits the legendary 1973 showdown at the Palace of Versailles, where French and American designers went head-to-head in a battle of artistry, style, and innovation.
The event featured French fashion royalty Yves Saint Laurent, Hubert de Givenchy, Pierre Cardin, Emanuel Ungaro, and Marc Bohan representing the old guard of haute couture. On the American side, an ambitious group of designers—Halston, Stephen Burrows, Anne Klein, Bill Blass, and Oscar de la Renta—brought fresh energy and a contemporary vision to the stage.
What began as a fundraiser to restore the iconic palace quickly became a game-changing moment in the industry. With minimalist staging and an emphasis on storytelling, the American team broke the mold of traditional fashion presentations. The models, including trailblazing Black talent like Pat Cleveland and Bethann Hardison, brought a vibrancy and inclusivity rarely seen at the time. Their performances electrified the audience and challenged preconceived notions of beauty and style.
Following the screening, director Fritz Mitchell joined a Q&A moderated by celebrity interviewer, Suzanne Zuckerman. Special guest Karen Bjornson, a former Halston model and witness to the iconic event, shared vivid memories of the evening and its monumental impact. Together, they explored how the Battle At Versailles shifted the balance of power in fashion, elevating American designers to global prominence and ushering in an era of bold creativity and diversity.
The evening at Bedford Playhouse was a true celebration of the artistry, cultural transformation, and enduring legacy sparked by this historic moment.
