Fashion through the ages – and where to find it

For those visiting the British capital, fashion and its history are two things you simply must explore. How could you not? You are surrounded by some of the most iconic exhibitions and fashion museums in London. With everything from the history of textiles to the evolution of underwear and seasonal exhibitions that showcase some of the greatest Royal dresses ever worn, fashion through the ages is a subject London does – and does well.

Victoria & Albert Museum

First to the Victoria & Albert museum – a 20-minute walk from the Hotel Grand Royale Hyde Park, either through or around the edge of Hyde Park. World famous for its quirky and artistic displays, the V&A has recently done exhibits showcasing the clothes of Madonna, Princess Diana, and costumes from various theatre productions over the last few decades. While some of the more iconic exhibitions cost an extra entry fee, it is possible to visit the V&A and spend a day wandering around the free areas to get a sense of how different fashions and arts have changed.

Fashion Space Gallery

Heading North from the Hotel Grand Royale Hyde Park you will eventually reach Marylebone – home to the London College of Fashion’s own exhibition space – the Fashion Space Gallery. The gallery not only has a regularly updated showcase of exhibitions but also hosts lots of talks and presentations for designers and those interested in learning more about technique and how it has evolved. A real winner if you’re into fashion design!

Fashion and Textile Museum

The next museum is a bit of a distance from Central, over in Bermondsey – a 20-minute journey by the underground. Though a bit further out, the Fashion and Textile Museum is really the place to go to find out where it all began, with exhibitions that explore the evolution of fashion and textiles, and how trends have changed over the years. The museum hosts regular talks with industry experts and even offers courses to those interested in progressing their education of the industry. Bermondsey is located close to the Southbank on the river Thames, with a wide variety of restaurants and eateries for you to choose from as part of your day trip across London.

Saatchi Gallery and the Design Museum

Close to the Hotel Grand Royale Hyde Park is the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea, and the Design Museum in Kensington – both offering a look into different types of design and how it is influenced by the changing world around us. The Saatchi Gallery in particular tends to showcase the work of unknown and small-scale artists, and also hosts the annual London Fashion Week which is attended every year by celebrities and leaders in the fashion industry.

London is a city led by both trend and tradition, and it is the fusion of both of these that makes London the destination it is. Though the above are some of the most renowned and popular destinations for fashion lovers, London is full of inspiration and artistic influence – you need only keep your eyes peeled as you walk through the parks and down through the different districts, and you will spot art and design all around you.