Step into the world of fashion as we embark on a V&A Fashion Tour! Our journey begins with a knowledgeable guide who enlightens us about the timeless beauty of kimonos from Japan in the 1960s. These stunning pieces of art are not just handed down from generation to generation but also hold deep cultural significance. With their long, flowing silhouette, kimonos are best paired with towering high heels that only add to their elegance. One of the most captivating aspects of these traditional garments is the family crest or motif, beautifully embroidered on the back of the kimono, intertwined with popular symbols such as flowers, birds, and clouds, showcasing the rich heritage of Japanese culture.
The collection’s clothing and accessories are a testament to the cultural values and beliefs of their time, as evidenced by their intricate details. Take, for instance, a pair of pajamas created for an Indian prince – adorned with delicate gold leaf and crafted from exceptionally fine fabric, it is a rare and valuable piece. Our guide explained that items containing gold are typically sold due to their high worth, making this particular find even more special.
Some of the featured designers, such as Elsa Schiaparelli, manage to make an intersection between fashion and art through their created pieces. An example is the Jacket called Circus Evening. Elsa Schiaparelli’s designs were characterised by their witty, Surrealist-inspired details. This jacket features a mosaic of mirrored paillettes in the shape of two lamb chops. It dates from Schiaparelli’s ‘Circus’ collection, presented in February 1938, just after the opening of the influential International Surrealism Exhibition in Paris. The jacket belonged to the American model and actress Ruth Ford.
In one of the dresses presented, in white, we can see the evolution in clothes through the advancement of technology. The sewing is done through a technique using sewing machine straw and straw. Machine-made net, or tulle, proved an ideal ground for hand-embroidery in contrasting silk, metal thread and spangles, or, as in this dress, straw work. Tulle was a new product manufactured in England and France.
The pieces in this collection are truly unique, challenging conventional norms and expectations about fashion and style. They offer more than just simple patterns; they bring a sense of belonging for the wearer. Take, for example, the stunning piece from Japan that we showcased. It’s a style famously worn by “Lolittas,” who began dressing in this manner after being inspired by a movie. Despite its unconventional appearance, wearing this outfit makes them feel comfortable and connected to Japanese culture. It’s a perfect example of how fashion can bring about positive feelings and a sense of identity to the wearer. So if you’re looking for something different and special to add to your wardrobe, this collection is definitely worth exploring.
he clothing and accessories featured in this collection represent the evolution of fashion’s relationship with functionality, conveying a message from the very moment they are worn. One example of this is the knitted jacket that was showcased to us at the conclusion of our tour. Originally designed to provide warmth in chilly weather, this particular coat has taken on a new meaning and popularity, thanks to the endorsement of pop singer Harry Styles. His fandom has propelled the jacket into the spotlight, and it has become a cherished item for many. Liv Huffman, an online content producer and artist, even created her own unique version of the cardigan, sharing a video of it on social media. This sparked a viral trend, with countless Styles fans creating and sharing their own inventive interpretations. In a show of appreciation, JW Anderson released a downloadable pattern and tutorial for the cardigan, much to the delight of his fans.
