Must-see fashion exhibitions

Whether you want to see the intricate work of a particular designer or an intensive look at style through the ages, there’s a fashion exhibition that’s perfect for you. Some truly amazing collections are already open to the public and many more have been announced for the New Year. Take a look at our list of must-see fashion exhibitions for all of the exciting details.

Orla Kiely: A Life in Pattern

This exclusive, retrospective collection exhibits 150 pieces of Orla Kiely’s past creations from photographs to laminate prints, and takes a look at her collaborations with photographers, architects and film directors. There’s even an original paper sketch of her instantly recognisable stem print to be seen.

Orla Kiely: A Life In Pattern at The Fashion and Textile Museum runs from 25^th May until 23^rd September 2018. To book visit here.

Fashioned From Nature

A refreshing exhibition featuring pieces from Stella McCartney and Philip Treacy among many others that looks at “the complex relationship between fashion and nature”.

Fashioned From Nature at The V&A runs from 21^st April 2018 to 27^th January 2019. To book visit here.

Azzedine Alaïa: The Couturier

At the time of designer Azzedine Alaïa’s passing late last year, he had been working with the Design Museum on a retrospective of his work. Known for his precise tailoring and sculptural designs, the celebrated couturier’s planned exhibition now serves as a fitting tribute to his life’s work.

Azzedine Alaïa: The Couturier at the Design Museum runs from 10^th May until 7^th October 2018. To book visit here.

Frida Khalo: Making Herself Up

Once upon a time you’d have had to travel to Mexico to see this fascinating, rare collection of Frida Khalo’s dresses, make-up, photographs and even a red leather boot clad prosthetic leg. After her passing, around 300 items were stored by her husband and uncovered, as he instructed, following his death in 2004.

Frida Khalo: Making Herself Up at The V&A runs from 16^th June until 24^th November 2018. To book visit here.

Knights of Knightsbridge

World renowned fashion photographer Nick Knight has collaborated with the Knightsbridge estate to display a collection of 18, images each 11 meters high featuring his most notable, architectural shots from designers such as Dior and John Galliano. The images span an impressive 120 meters and are set to stay put until summer 2019.

Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams

From February 2019 the Victoria & Albert Museum will house the largest collection on the House of Dior ever seen in the UK.

Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams at the V&A will run from 2^nd February until 14^th July 2019. To visit book here.

Sophie Cook
Photo: Courtesy of Orla Kiely