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If you’ve seen the American Crime Story series on his assassination, you’ll know something of the story of Gianni Versace, the socialite, businessman and fashion designer who founded one of Italy’s most respected luxury fashion houses.
Born in Calabria in 1946, Versace worked in his family’s tailor shop before moving to Milan to establish his eponymous label in 1978. Over the following two decades, he became one of the fashion industry’s most powerful and influential figures before his untimely death in 1997, dressing everyone from Liz Hurley, Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss to Princess Diana, Elton John and George Michael.
Some of those iconic looks will feature in a major retrospective of the designer arriving in London this summer. Opening at The Arches in London Bridge on Wednesday July 16, Gianni Versace Retrospective will feature over 450 items, including original garments and accessories, personal sketches, interviews and photographs, many of which have never been displayed in the UK before now.
Central to the exhibition is a vibrant chronology of looks charting showcasing Versace’s craftsmanship, innovation and immediately recognisable aesthetic across 21 collections, from Spring/Summer 1988 to Autumn/Winter 1997-98, the last show before Versace was murdered in 1997. Amongst there pieces on display will be examples of the designer’s most iconic motifs, from daring designs referencing bondage, to the opulent baroque-inspired prints that are still synonymous with the brand today.
Previous iterations of the exhibition have already toured to the Netherlands, Poland, Germany, Sweden and Spain, but speaking of the London opening, curator Karl von der Ahe, said ‘Bringing this retrospective to London feels especially meaningful. Gianni Versace’s bold, unapologetic vision revolutionised fashion, and this city—so rich in creativity and cultural influence—provides the perfect stage to celebrate his legacy. We’re thrilled to share these iconic pieces in one of the world’s fashion capitals.’
Tickets for the exhibition are £23, and will be available via a presale on Tuesday May 20 to those signing up via the exhibition’s website, before going on general sale the following day.
The V&A East Storehouse has just revealed details of its first events and exhibits.
And the original Morley’s sign is going on display at a London museum.
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