British Ballgowns at the V&A

The V&A is fastly becoming my favourite museum in London. It has so much to look at, free and paid for exhibitions. Plus a brilliant cafe which boasts some delicious sandwiches, cakes and giant scones and if you fancy it, wine! The garden is also superb, if it’s a sunny day it is a great place to really chill out, whilst making notes or drawing the art (in my case doodling).

As soon as you walk into the V&A you are greeted with a cathedral-like interior. The ceilings are high and the columns decorated. This piece of art hanging from the ceiling caught my eye.

I recently went to see the Ballgowns exhibition which is running from now until January next year. It is being exhibited in the newly opened fashion gallery which boasts a collection of fashion throughout the years.

Ballgowns showcases beautiful British designed ballgowns from high glamour evening dresses for the red carpet to dresses created for state occasions, including Princess Diana’s ‘Elvis’ dress, which was covered in pearls and designed by Catherine Walker for her visit to Hong Kong. Over sixty years worth of amazing gowns are included in the exhibition starting from the 1950’s and highlights the designs, shapes and colours that have been maintained throughout this time.

This dress by Gareth Pugh is a stunning metallic leather silver dress, which was especially designed for the show.

Some of my favourite designers are featured including Vivienne Westwood, who has supplied a gorgeous white ballgown, almost wedding like! There is a stunning tulle sille and crystal gown by Jenny Packham which Sandra Bullock wore to the 68th Golden Globes and it also featured in Gossip Girl.

The top floor has images being projected onto the lower ceilings and the mannequins stand tall.

I loved the styling of the mannequins and the selection of images behind the glass. Carefully chosen brooches and jewellery along with other stylish pieces complemented the exhibition well.

Another exciting addition is the dress designed that Beyonce wore when she performed at the White House for President Obama. A Ralph and Russo creation, encrusted with Swarovski crystals. My favourite however was the Alexander McQueen creation for Daphne Guinness when she attended the Costume Institute ball, lots and lots of feathers.

I most definitely need a ballgown and now I just need someone to design one for me and also a ball to go to!

Invites purleasee!