The Runway Muse.: exhibitions

Tuesday, 28 May 2013

Red Carpet: Cannes Film Festival 2013

The Cannes Film Festival has got to be the most spectacular of red carpet events. For just a few days, cinema's most successful and prominent actors and actresses are brought together under the glorious sun of the French Riviera, not only to promote their work but also to showcase stunning creations, designed by the most sought-after couturiers in the world. Here just three of my personal best-dressed celebrities - take a look! Who were your best-dressed?

Prada red ballgown with pink accents on final night of festival


Lanvin tiered prom dress with black sandals and jewellery by Chaumet

Audrey Tautou looked so understated and chic. The combination of her trademark elegance with that quality of lavish glamour so befitting for Cannes was just beautiful.

Dior pre-autumn/winter 2013-14 white silk crepe gown with Chopard jewellery

Dior dress from pre-spring/summer 2014 collection, jewellery by Chopard

Vivienne Westwood Couture pink and ivory striped dress and Jimmy Choo nude sandals

Marion Cotillard looked just as gorgeous in Westwood and Dior in soft frills, asymmetrical hemlines and art deco inspired designs.

Giorgio Armani bespoke gown with Swarovski bow detailing, Harry Winston jewellery

Ivory gown from the Valentino Couture spring/summer 2013 collection

Dior Couture strapless embroidered dress with pink heels

Nicole Kidman's outfits were soft and feminine, interjecting the red carpet with that all-important dose of over-the-top decadence for which Cannes is so renowned.

Tuesday, 19 March 2013

The Dior Exhibition @ Harrods

Look familiar?

Not only do you now have the opportunity to re-live the magic of Charlize Theron striding down the Hall of Mirrors but you can now experience the very essence of Dior on the fourth floor of the world's most famous department store. This month, Harrods pays homage to one of the most renowned fashion houses that has ever existed through a lavish pop-up exhibition that spans nine boutiques and thirty three window displays - only took 18 months' preparation!

Travel through time to bear witness to some of Dior's most emblematic works of artistry from the cinched-in waist, to the full skirt, which celebrated revolutionary new turning points in women's fashion. Adorned with panels explaining the craftsmanship involved from sketchy idea to style innovation, you can truly appreciate the touch of creative genius that has shaped the 67 years of the Dior fashion dynasty. You will find yourself drooling over the opulent exhibits of miniature evening dress prototypes before creation and the one-off vintage dresses worn by the most sought-after Hollywood pin-up girls - no less than the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and Rita Hayworth.

The classic traditions of Dior is brought right up to the present day, showcasing bizzare yet beautiful new creations and the free-thinking outside-the-box creativity for which the brand is famous. You can even see the real-life gown from the J'adore Dior campaign in all its golden splendour. And trust me, you will be biting your lip to resist the temptation to rip it off the mannequin to try it on for yourself.

I could divulge more but I'll leave it up to you to discover your own Dior experience. I will finish off by saying that whatever important arrangements or pressing rendez-vous you may have in the weeks to come - cancel them! This exhibition is something you will not want to miss. In the words of Charlize, j'adore!