Mary Quant, Victoria & Albert Museum - ★★★★ - Until February 16, 2020


“Bliss it was in that dawn to be alive, but to be young was very heaven.” No one evokes the 60's and a new Britain opening up to the world after the devastation of WW II like Mary Quant. She created the liberating, iconoclastic fashion of the era and developed an international brand which set the standard for integrated marketing. This first major exhibition looking at her revolutionary influence is composed of over 120 beautifully displayed garments as well as accessories, photos and video of the era. From her original shop, Bazaar on Chelsea's King's Road, which is suggested by the "high street" first floor of the exhibition, Mary Quant built a fashion house which came to encompass dolls, dress patterns, foundation garments, make-up and much more. This show brilliantly captures the challenges to gender and class, the youthful joy and sly humour that typify Quant's work. This exhibition shows us an artist who pushes boundaries, seeks to democratise fashion and reflects the optimistic outward-looking spirit of the times.

Reviewed by J.C.


 Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆ 

WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until Feb 16, 2020
Mon - Thurs, Sat & Sun: 10 am - 4:15 pm 
Fri: 10 am - 8:15 pm
Gallery 40, Victoria & Albert Museum
Nearest tube: South Kensington
https://www.vam.ac.uk/exhibitions/mary-quant

Map & Location: Cromwell Rd, Knightsbridge, London SW7 2RL, UK

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