Pierre Balmain's "Evening Dress Soir a Chambord" (1961). KOBE FASHION MUSEUM

The evening dress came into vogue in Paris during the mid-19th century, when various forms of nighttime entertainment became popular among the French aristocracy. Such dresses assumed an important role in defining its wearer, giving the woman a way to express her wealth, personality and identity.

This exhibition showcases evening wear designed in the 150 years following 1852, the beginning of the Second French Empire, tracing the history of elaborate gowns, and their diversification as haute couture (custom-made "high fashion" clothing) came into demand.

Featured fashion designers include Christian Dior, Paul Poiret, and Cristobal Balenciaga Eizaguirre; till July 3.

Other arts this week
Looking beyond the giant canvases By JEFF MICHAEL HAMMOND	Japanese art still struggles in China By LAURA FITCH	"Masterpieces of Chinese Ceramic Art Exhibition" By MADS BERTHELSEN
"Beat Takeshi Kitano, Gosse de peintre" By MADS BERTHELSEN	"Iwago Mitsuaki Photographic Exhibition: Cats" By TOMOHIRO OSAKI