Something for the week-end: When fashion becomes art
I somehow manage to squeeze two fab exhibitions last Friday night which are definitely worth a blog post. When fashion becomes art, fashionistas can certainly rejoice!
Hermès - Leather Forever at the Royal Academy of Arts
Celebrating Hermès’ 175th anniversary, the exhibition traces Hermès’ history which began as saddle and harness-maker, to one of the most famous handbag, leather and accessories brand in the world. The exhibition also plays host to some of the brand’s famed artisans, who will show you how the bags are made. Each handbag is made by hand and takes anything between 15 – 24 hours work to create. The price tag and waiting lists are definitely justified when you see the artisans at work. The whole process is mesmerising!
Christian Louboutin at the Design Museum
The first retrospective of french shoe designer Christian Louboutin in the UK, the exhibition features footwear developed over the past 20 years. The displayed shoes range from stilettos, lace-up boots, and classic pumps, both from previous collections, as well as one-off designs. The footwear is examines the many sources which louboutin draws from in this creative process: cabaret and the showgirl; fantasy and fairy tale; art and architecture.
If I had to pick one exhibition, I would go for Hermès Leather Forever, just to admire some beautiful, iconic bags and see an artisan at work. The icing on the cake? The exhibition is free.
