The Avant Garde: Yves Saint Laurent exhibition heading to the North East!

Already hugely overexcited about the Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibition at the V & A (I’m going on the opening day in March), I have to admit to pinching myself on Sunday when I heard that the Bowes Museum had been selected as the UK venue for Yves Saint Laurent: Style is Eternal, which opens on July 11^th. All the more momentous due to the fact that it’s the first retrospective of Yves Henri Donat Mathieu-Saint-Laurent's (to use his full name) pivotal designs in the UK. The focal point of the exhibition will be the defining elements of his vision, concentrating on game changing styles and iconic pieces such as the Tuxedo, Mondrian dresses and the Russian Collection. Following a handful of film biopics last year, this exhibition cements YSL’s reputation as one of the most talented and visionary designers of the 20^th century.

Why Bowes? Anyone that’s visited will understand the choice, and it’s certainly fitting that a French chateau will play host to this global fashion event. Even better that I don't have to traipse all the way to London to see it! Pierre Berge, Saint Laurent’s partner and president of the Foundation that is committed to keeping YSL’s work at the forefront of international fashion, has cited the museum’s “exceptional work with fashion and textiles” and the undeniable beauty of the “Second Empire French Chateau” as reasons why it’s the perfect setting.