Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art – A New Exhibition at the V&A
Next spring, the V&A South Kensington will launch an exciting new fashion exhibition titled ‘Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art.’ This exhibition will delve into the extraordinary legacy of Elsa Schiaparelli, viewed through a Surrealist lens that challenged norms and redefined fashion’s boundaries. Opening in March 2026, this will be the first UK exhibition exclusively focused on the pioneering couturière, showcasing a collection that appeals to both fashion enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
The Vision Behind the Exhibition
This groundbreaking exhibition coincides with the recent haute couture show in Paris under the direction of Daniel Roseberry, Schiaparelli’s current artistic leader. Visitors can expect an immersive experience that invites them to reimagine the everyday, transforming familiar objects into fantastical artifacts brimming with wit and theatricality.
A Curated Experience of Fashion History
The exhibition will feature over 200 pieces from the archive, including couture, jewelry, sculpture, and fragrances. Highlights will include iconic pieces such as the Skeleton dress and the Tears gown, both of which showcase collaborations with artistic giants like Salvador Dalí. Additionally, works by legends such as Picasso, Cocteau, and Man Ray will enrich the narrative, showcasing Schiaparelli’s dynamic partnerships and the lesser-known history of her London branch.
Transformative Artistry in Fashion
Schiaparelli’s influence on 20th-century design is profound, characterized by her eccentric garments and innovative style. She perceived fashion as a powerful medium for personal expression and cultural commentary. With her avant-garde creations, she masterfully blended satire and sensuality, famously stating that “in difficult times, fashion is always outrageous.”
Bridging Eras and Styles
The exhibition aims to connect different eras, tracing a lineage from Schiaparelli’s creations to Roseberry’s contemporary designs, which have captivated powerful figures such as Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Dua Lipa. At the renowned 21 Place Vendôme, Schiaparelli’s spirit continues to resonate through her innovative gilded corsets and sculpted leather roses.
Celebrating Collaborations and Creative Wealth
“This exhibition celebrates her enduring influence through iconic collaborations with masters of the 20th century and an inventive blend of creativity and commerce,” says Delphine Bellini, CEO of Schiaparelli. Tristram Hunt, director of the V&A, describes the house as an “ideal subject for a spectacular exhibition,” emphasizing the unprecedented scale of loans involved in this project.
A Grand Continuation of Fashion History
Following the success of previous blockbuster exhibitions such as ‘Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams’ and ‘Gabrielle Chanel: Fashion Manifesto’, ‘Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art’ furthers the V&A’s commitment to preserving fashion history. The exhibition promises to be a profound exploration of couture and the intricate legacy of one of fashion’s most revolutionary figures.
Visit the Exhibition
Mark your calendars! ‘Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art’ will be available to visit from March 21 to November 1, 2026, at the V&A South Kensington. Tickets for this extraordinary event will be available soon, ensuring that visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and artistic innovation of Elsa Schiaparelli.
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