Fashion conscious visitors to the V & A this summer have not just one but two world class fashion exhibitions to enjoy. The Glamour of Italian Fashion 1945 – 2014, sponsored by Bulgari charts the origins of couture in post-war Italy and the significant contribution the country has made to the global fashion industry over the past seventy years. Historic pieces from some of the world’s most talented and flamboyant designers, from Valentino and Versace to Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni and Prada are on display in a beautifully curated exhibition which perfectly showcases the evolution of design in Italy. From the beautifully crafted leather to the finest textiles, visitors are treated to a feast of couture, ready to wear, fine jewellery and accessories.
The clothes are
complemented by fashion photography and film from the period. Highlights include
legendary jewellery worn by Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra and Audrey Hepburn’s
dress from the movie “War and Peace” in a charming section recounting Italian
fashion’s contribution to the film industry. The origins of the “Made in Italy”
brand are fascinating, with family owned regional firms making up the backbone of
the entire industry. The exhibition also showcases up and coming talent and
asks important questions about the future of the Italian fashion industry in
the shadow of economic problems and political scandals. The exhibition is as
visually stunning as the clothes on display with innovative use of infographics
and film, bringing the industry to life in front of your eyes.
The Glamour of Italian Fashion – 5th
April to 27th July 2014.
Wedding
Dresses – 1775 to 2014
Anyone getting
married in the near future or interested in fashion in the slightest will be
wowed by the V & A’s other exhibition, which charts the history of the
wedding dress from its humble origins in the 18th century to the
high fashion designer offerings of the present day. It’s fascinating to learn
about the evolution of the most important dress in the lives of many women - Queen
Victoria started the long standing trend of brides wearing white in 1840 (prior
to this aristocrats would wear colour or gold and silver to signify wealth). With
pieces by the founder of modern day couture Charles Frederick Worth, Norman Hartnell and Charles James to modern day designers – stand out pieces include
the Vivienne Westwood purple creation for Dita Von Teese and Kate Moss’
beautifully beaded John Galliano gown. Discovering long forgotten details about
the lives of the original owners of the dresses and the effect of the era on
the style is yet another wonderful aspect of this visually stunning and moving
exhibition.
Wedding Dresses
– 1775 to 2014 – until 15th March 2015
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