October 28, 2014 |
Power dressing isn’t all about Margaret Thatcher suits and Joan Collins shoulder pads. No no. Women Fashion Power, a new exhibition at the Design Museum, takes a closer look at how women have used fashion to assert their power and define and enhance their position in the world. And though there is a Mansfield suit worn by the Iron Lady, there is much more besides. The exhibition covers clothes from two centuries and 25 women, from CEOs to princesses and models, including Natalie Massenet, Princess Charlene of Monaco and Naomi Campbell. “This exhibition shows how women have used different approaches to dress in order to make statements which are unique to them and their personalities,” said friend of Ten and co-curator of this exhibition Colin McDowell. “Few of the women in this exhibition would see themselves as fashion plates or even strong fashion followers. They create their own wardrobes, not to be fashion plates but to demonstrate who and what they are.” These women have contributed personally to the exhibition, not only in terms of outfits but their style philosophies. As well as this, there are vintage pieces on display, including a Zandra Rhodes ‘Conceptual Chic’ punk wedding dress and clothes and accessories owned by Elsa Schiaparelli. Hide nor hair of a shoulder pad.
Women Fashion Power: October 29-April 26; The Design Museum, London SE1
By Ted Stansfield
