A Beautiful Day at the V&A Cont. - Ballgowns Exhibit

There was no photo-taking allowed at the next exhibit I visited, but I've managed to find some photos on the internet of the garments being worn in their original context. The ballgowns exhibition (British Glamour since the 1950s) was interestingly laid out according to colour, with different eras blending into each other; very contemporary designs alongside classical '50s shapes. Downstairs were the British classic designs, displayed on plain white mannequins with backdrops of the ornate paneling in Norfolk House. Upstairs the models were scattered under a domed atrium and the floor-space was adorned with over-sized pearl necklaces and fallen chandeliers. The layout was effortless, and perfect for such an exhibit. Here's a few highlights:

A fabulously '80s pink taffeta number worn by Joan Collins (left) in 1983, and Helen Mirren's 2007 Bafta dress (right) in fawn and ivory silk taffeta.

 A design by David and Elizabeth Emanuel (left), who made the wedding dress for Diana, Princess of Wales. This one a gown for Elizabeth Hurley worn in the Estee Lauder 'Pleasures' advertising campaign. An ethereal and soft white satin and flocked tulle gown by Vivienne Westwood (right) for Lady Bianca Job-Tyoran to wear to Queen Charlotte's ball in 1994.

There was also a fabulous collection of accessories including gloves in mustard, flame, crimson, rose, teal, indigo and olive, and shoes with impressive diamante and crystal detail on the heels and toes. All in all a fabulous glitzy, girly day and the V&A!