A Stroll Through London’s 2025 Fashion Exhibitions: Tradition Meets Innovation
London is a city where the past and present meet in a whirlwind of cultural exploration, and 2025 promises an exceptional lineup of fashion exhibitions that celebrate both the timeless and the contemporary. Whether you're a history aficionado or a lover of modern style, there's something to intrigue every visitor. Let’s take a leisurely walk through the city's most anticipated exhibitions, from royal couture to swimsuits, and even the legacy of legendary designers.
The Edwardians: Age of Elegance at The King’s Gallery
Let’s begin our journey with a step back in time to the Edwardian era, a period marked by opulence, elegance, and the transition from Victorian restraint to the exuberance of the early 20th century. This exhibition at The King’s Gallery, nestled within Buckingham Palace, promises to immerse visitors in the world of Edwardian fashion and design. From the intricate works of Carl Fabergé to the flowing textiles of William Morris, the exhibition brings to life over 300 objects, many of which have never been seen before. Among the treasures, you’ll find exquisite examples of jewellery, fine art, and royal attire, all encapsulating the grandeur of a bygone era.
As you wander through the gallery, imagine the ballrooms of the Edwardian elite, where the elite flaunted their wealth in dazzling gowns and tailored suits. This exhibition is a perfect introduction to the lavish world that shaped early 20th-century fashion.
When: 11 April – 23 November 2025
Where: The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace (London SW1A 1AA)
Tickets: From £19 per person | rct.uk
NAOMI In Fashion at The V&A
Next, we head to the V&A, where the iconic Naomi Campbell’s legacy is on full display. While this exhibition opened in 2024, its allure continues well into 2025, offering a fascinating look at the supermodel’s illustrious career. With over 100 looks from fashion houses like Chanel, Versace, and Alexander McQueen, the exhibition chronicles Campbell’s journey from a 15-year-old scout in Covent Garden to a global fashion icon.
You’ll be transported to the world of high fashion, where the lines between art and commerce blur. The exhibition’s curation highlights Campbell’s role in shaping the fashion industry, and her collaborations with designers like Vivienne Westwood and Yves Saint Laurent offer a captivating glimpse into the power dynamics between model and designer.
When: Until 6 April 2025
Where: V&A South Kensington (Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL)
Tickets: From £18 per person (members go free) | vam.ac.uk
Splash! A Century Of Swimming And Style at The Design Museum
A short stroll across town brings us to The Design Museum, where an unexpected fashion exhibition awaits. Splash! A Century Of Swimming And Style dives into the evolution of the swimsuit and the broader cultural impact of water. From the social phenomenon of beach holidays to the technical advancements in competitive swimming, the exhibition examines how swimwear has evolved alongside changing attitudes toward the body, leisure, and even the environment.
One of the exhibition’s highlights is the iconic red bathing suit worn by Pamela Anderson in Baywatch, a symbol of 90s pop culture. With over 200 objects on display, this exhibition offers a fascinating exploration of the intersection between fashion, sport, and society. It’s a refreshing departure from traditional fashion exhibitions, offering something for everyone, from fashion lovers to history buffs.
When: 28 March – 17 August 2025
Where: The Design Museum (224-238 Kensington High Street, London W8 6AG)
Tickets: From £16 per person | designmuseum.org
Cartier at The V&A
From swimwear, we move to the world of luxury jewellery with Cartier at the V&A. This exhibition, set to open in April 2025, will delve into the rich history of the renowned French jeweller, showcasing over 350 objects that highlight Cartier’s legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and glamour. The exhibition will feature stunning pieces like the Scroll Tiara, which has ties to both British and pop royalty, and explore how the brand has become synonymous with timeless elegance.
As you explore the glittering world of Cartier, you’ll encounter rare pieces that have adorned royalty and celebrities alike. The exhibition promises to be a jewel in London’s 2025 fashion calendar, offering an unparalleled look at one of the world’s most prestigious jewellery houses.
When: 12 April – 16 November 2025
Where: V&A South Kensington (Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL)
Tickets: Available soon (members go free) | vam.ac.uk
Dress Codes at Kensington Palace
As we venture towards Kensington Palace, we enter the world of royal fashion with Dress Codes. Opening in March 2025, this exhibition will explore the complex and often hidden meanings behind royal attire. Featuring rarely-seen garments from the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, including a 20th-century Japanese court suit and a 1920s Reville court dress, the exhibition also showcases pieces worn by some of the most iconic figures in royal history, such as Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and Queen Victoria.
The exhibition will provide a rare opportunity to see up close the intricate details of royal dress, from the fabrics to the accessories, and how these garments were carefully chosen to communicate power, status, and identity. The exhibition will also reflect on how royal fashion has evolved and the role it plays in shaping public perception.
When: 13 March – 30 November 2025
Where: Kensington Palace (Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX)
Tickets: Included in palace admission (£20, members go free) | hrp.org.uk
Marie Antoinette Style at The V&A
No fashion exhibition in London would be complete without a nod to the enduring legacy of Marie Antoinette. In September 2025, the V&A will open Marie Antoinette Style, the UK’s first exhibition dedicated to the French queen’s fashion influence. From her lavish gowns to her iconic hairstyles, Marie Antoinette’s style has been both admired and criticized throughout history.
The exhibition will feature a range of gowns, accessories, and audiovisual installations that bring to life the fashion choices that made her one of the most influential fashion icons of the 18th century. This is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of fashion, politics, and historical narrative.
When: 20 September 2025 – 22 March 2026
Where: V&A South Kensington (Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL)
Tickets: Available soon (members go free) | vam.ac.uk
Reflections on 2025’s Fashion Exhibitions
As we conclude our fashion tour of London for 2025, one thing becomes clear: the city continues to be a cultural hub where fashion, history, and innovation intertwine. Each exhibition offers a unique lens through which we can explore not just the clothes we wear but the stories they tell, the cultural shifts they reflect, and the legacies they leave behind.
From the regal glamour of Kensington Palace to the modern glamour of Naomi Campbell at the V&A, these exhibitions invite us to reflect on the power of fashion to shape our world. So, whether you're admiring the opulence of the Edwardians or diving into the history of swimwear, 2025 is the year to experience London through the lens of fashion history.
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