Jeans are the most widely worn article of clothing on the planet. 73 pairs are sold every second!
As legend would have it, jeans first appeared in California, worn by hawkers and goldminers. In less than a century, they conquered the world, reflecting the growth of the textile industry and its globalisation. A symbol of rebellion or anti-conformism, for working or leisure wear, over the years they have made their appearance on catwalks everywhere. And now that jeans have become a wardrobe essential, the question of their production is crucial.
ExpoJean takes the cult garment apart stitch by stitch. In a setting that suggests a large workshop, visitors explore the different areas, in turn becoming historians, designers, top models… and educated consumers.
Jeans material or denim could have its origin in Serge ‘de Nîmes’ or Gênes (Genoa) canvas. Visitors investigate and discover the difference between jeans and denim. After this introductory presentation, they will certainly be drawn to the ‘buttock wall’. For never in the history of clothing has a garment so spectacularly showcased the behind. Then the public poses in a photo booth for pictures that resemble those of famous personalities such as James Dean, Barack Obama, Shakira or Angèle, the Belgian singer. A disected pair of jeans shows the different sections of the clothing and, finally, a wall of dolls demonstrates that the material is used for all kinds of dress, not just the ‘universal garment’. The exhibition goes on to present all aspects of jeans: designer, jeans for rebellion, jeans for work. Then talks about the ecological an human impact that a pair of jeans makes as it is made. All in all a fun and thorough presentation of this most every day and universal item.
ExpoJean is a trilingual exhibition in French, English, Spanish both at the museum and online where they have guided tours. The expo is geared for kids 9 and up. Reserve your visit in advance on cite-sciences.fr
Until 22 January 2022 at the Cité des sciences et de l’industrie – 30, avenue Corentin-Cariou – 75019 Paris
#ExpoJean
For Jeans made in France have a look at this article. https://www.fusac.fr/french-economics/
