"Oscar de la Renta: The Retrospective," at the de Young museum through May 30

Truly a visual feast, "Oscar de la Renta: The Retrospective," takes viewers on a sumptuous fashion journey through significant periods of the iconic designer's career.

Ranging from his early work to pieces inspired by Spanish, Russian and other cultures, the exhibition presents more than 130 of de la Renta's creations. Encompassing five decades, the ensembles range from chic day wear to elegant ball gowns. Curated by Andre Leon Talley, Vogue magazine's former American editor-at-large, the show also offers a glimpse into de la Renta the man through two documentaries shown in a separate viewing room near the exhibition space.

"Oscar de la Renta: The Retrospective," through May 30. Herbst exhibition galleries, de Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, S.F. (415) 750-3600, www.deyoung.famsf.org

All photographs by Stephanie Wright Hession