Savage Beauty

So although the long-time awaited exhibition of Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty is now over two months old, due to high demand I have only recently been able to get my hands on a ticket. Last weekend I rushed myself down to the V&A to see exactly what the fuss was all about...

What stood out?

Each room held it's own atmospheric tone. Every room clashed with the previous and the next, sending a shiver down your spine as you were overwhelmed by the pure artistic emotion. This overpowering impact was created by both McQueen's designs and the décor of each section. 

What did I Learn?

As a lover of the late and great man himself, I thought I knew about most of his lines and the the inspiration behind them. But I did not. I learnt about designs that were even created before I was born, where McQueen trained- Gieves & Hawkes- and that this was a continuous underlying influence throughout his work.

What made it unique from any other fashion exhibition?

The use of multi-media throughout the rooms. There were screens showing the looks on the catwalk, 3D images of his work, and videos to accompanied them. In addition to this, the sound effects and décor of each room complimented the theme produced. 

Would you go again? 

I think this is an exhibition that I could visit again and again, and always find something new. McQueen's work is extraordinary and unique. 


K.

The Glamour Of Italian Fashion

If you read my previous post on 'Wedding Dresses 1774-2014', you'll know that I was sent out to research exhibitions at the V&A for my fashion internship. I was lucky enough to be sent to the amazing 'The Glamour Of Italian Fashion. I had such an amazing day, walking round the beautiful museum and viewing some of the most stunning fashion in the industry.

The exhibition observes the development of Italian fashion from World War II through to the present day. It displays a long line up of designers from Sorelle Fontana and Giovanni Battista Giorgini to Giorgio Armani and Moschino. When walking around you really begin to appreciate the great quality of italian fashion, although this is seen as a typical cliche, it is one thing that particularly stands out.

The exhibit was set out into 5 rooms, each in chronological order of time period. The first from 1774, this displayed women’s wartime day suits. The government used this fashion to help them through the hard time and construct a sense of nationhood. 

The second showing the garments made after the war, the 'Return to luxury', specifically showing beautiful and colourful ball gowns.

 The third focused on the 1950s and 60s. It showed the influence from Hollywood, lots of glitz and glam, and displayed actors and actresses outfits from the period, such as Audrey Hepburn’s gown from ‘Love in the Afternoon’. 

The fourth room was the 'now', exhibiting modern designers and some of their current seasonal garments. 

And finally, the fifth room, 'The Future'. This room projected video interviews with known names of Italian fashion, discussing what they believe makes Italian fashion unique and what is in store for the future.

The  exhibition makes you appreciate the influence of Italian fashion worldwide and the beauty and quality of their garments.

K. 

'Wedding Dresses 1774 - 2014' at the V&A

When being sent to the Victoria and Albert Museum for research for my internship, I took the opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. Not only was it lovely to go to the V&A on such a warm summer's day, admire the museum and its surroundings, but I also got to go view an exhibition which i'd been wanting to visit for quite a while now: 'Wedding Dresses 1774-2014'. 

Upon entering the two floor exhibition you are presented with an explanation of what it intends to do. This was one thing that remained in my head whilst walking round the showing, that it was not merely a display of wedding dresses, but that it aims to capture the magical experience of each individual bride's wedding day. It showcased a variety of dresses expanding over culture and time to demonstrate that each bride is different, not only displaying dresses of celebrities but also those of every-day women. The entire experience enkindles the essence of which each bride's personality is echoed through their wedding dress. 

Here are a few of my favourites....

One of my favourites had to be this gown. Ian Stuart's 'Flower Bomb', due to its creativity and craftsmanship.

Another is Vivienne Westwood's dress, designed specifically for Deeta Von Teese. Although it's not your typical coloured wedding dress, it visually displays her personality.

This Dress was neither designed nor worn by anyone famous but is a classic example of asian culture, and how it is still present in festivities in today's society. This gown was worn by Anjali Bulley, an employee at the V&A.

Finally, my absolute favourite. Kate Moss's dress which was designed by John Galliano. This dress is stunning, no photo could do it justice. It took 701 hours to embroider the dress and 253 for the veil. 270,000 gold sequins were hand sewn onto the gown along with 120,000 paillons and 2800 pearl beads. It shimmered with each touch of the light. 

I would recommend this exhibition to anyone interested in fashion, looking for wedding inspiration or even those intrigued by the historical aspect.

K.