Review of The Victoria & Albert Museum by Adrienne Bush

 

Victoria & Albert Fashion Collection

 

 

At the Victoria and Albert Museum the Dress Gallery contains cases full of outfits dating from the mid 1500s to the present time. It is a fashion exhibit that I have never seen paralleled. As you pass through the halls you can see designer garments, traditional outfits, and everyday clothing items that have been worn around the world.

 

The exhibit explores the influence of fashion from various regions of the world. There are cases featuring designs from Paris, New York, London, Milan, and Tokyo. Items from London designers explain how the city evolved as a major fashion capital after the Second World War. The designs portray the importance of individuality while maintaining the tailored look London became known for. Milan became Italy’s fashion capital in the 1970s and remains a powerful influence in the world of fashion today. The exhibit offers a more in depth look at the fashion industry in each city.

 

  

 

Each section of the collection is arranged in chronological order. This arrangement allows visitors to see how each garment has evolved over the years. At times the changes are subtle, but as you move along you can see drastic changes to each look. Suits, Dresses, Evening Wear, and Wedding Gowns are just a few of the sections that are on display.

  

 

 

The Victoria and Albert Museum encourages visitors to become involved in the exhibits by offering numerous hands on activities. One features a computer program where you can create and print your own textile design, while another exhibit allows you to try on corsets, hoop skirts, and waist coats. By allowing visitors to become involved in the exhibits, the museum offers a more thorough learning experience.

 

The Victoria and Albert Museum is open from 10:00am to 5:45pm daily and entrance is free. For more information call 020 7942 2000 or log on to www.vam.ac.uk for further details.  

 

 

By Adrienne Bush