Hollywood Costume Exhibition

There are literally just three days left of the fantastic 'Hollywood Costume' exhibition at the V&A, if you haven't seen it, beg, borrow or steal a ticket, it's utterly amazing. Five years in the planning and spanning a hundred years of cinema, from Charlie Chaplin's 'The Little Tramp' to models from 'Avatar', every iconic outfit is gathered under one roof.

The exhibition is beautifully displayed and includes some fascinating interviews with actors and designers, explaining how costumes help with the creation and development of characters.

From the glamour of 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' to the urban grit of 'The Bourne Identity' there is something for every film fan.


Here are some of my favourites:

Lady in the Dark 1944

 Ginger Rogers wore this Edith Head gown in 'Lady in the Dark' in 1944. At the time it was the most expensive gown ever created for a movie, allegedly costing $35,000.

Gone with the Wind 1939, The Bride Wore Red 1937

On the left the infamous velvet dress worn by Vivien Leigh in 'Gone with the Wind' designed by Walter Plunkett and on the right the incredible bugle bead gown worn by Joan Crawford in 'The Bride Wore Red' designed by Adrian. This is the first time I have seen this dress in colour as the film was shot in black and white!

Addams Family Values 1993

Anjelica Huston wore this gown in 'Addams Family Values' it was designed by Theoni V Aldredge.

Tippi Hedren discusses 'The Birds'

I must also say how much I enjoyed 'The Birds' installation; incredibly inventive and enthralling to hear Tippi Hedren and Edith Head discussing this movie.

I think it's safe to say that the 'Hollywood Costume' exhibition is a truly extraordinary event and one I shall remember for a very long time!

Rockwife xx