I've never mentioned this, but when I was at Parsons teaching, the other design disciplines, they don't like fashion design. They see it as very nineteenth-century.

In the quote, "I've never mentioned this, but when I was at Parsons teaching, the other design disciplines, they don't like fashion design. They see it as very nineteenth-century," Tim Gunn is revealing a tension between fashion design and other design fields, particularly in academic settings. Gunn, known for his work as a fashion consultant and TV personality, reflects on his time teaching at Parsons, a prestigious design school, and shares an insight into how fashion design is often viewed by other disciplines. According to Gunn, fashion design is sometimes seen as outdated, with critics viewing it as rooted in the more traditional, nineteenth-century style, rather than as a modern, evolving field.

Gunn's comment highlights the divide that can exist between different creative fields. While fashion is an integral part of design and culture, it can sometimes be perceived as less sophisticated or less innovative compared to fields like graphic design, industrial design, or architecture. The reference to nineteenth-century suggests that some view fashion design as bound by historical norms, rather than being seen as forward-thinking or modern. Gunn, through this statement, may be pointing out the need for a broader understanding of the evolution of fashion as a design discipline that is just as dynamic and innovative as any other.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Gunn's experience as both a teacher and a fashion expert. Having spent years at Parsons and in the fashion industry, he is keenly aware of the way fashion design is perceived within the larger world of design education. His role as a mentor to young fashion designers highlights the challenges they may face in convincing other designers of the relevance and importance of their field in modern design education and practice.

Ultimately, this quote reflects the biases and misunderstandings that can exist between various creative disciplines. It speaks to the ongoing effort to elevate fashion design to the level of other design fields by showcasing its relevance and adaptability. Gunn’s words suggest a call for recognition of fashion design’s modernity, encouraging a shift in perception towards viewing it as an evolving, innovative discipline in its own right.