Club to Catwalk 1980'S

A little while back the kind people at the V&A invited me to the preview of 'From Club to Catwalk, London Fashion in the 1980's'. No convincing was needed I was there and I took along Mr David Sassoon with me, (I interned for him while I was at Louis Mariette). However being a silly billy I forgot to document the occasion. So this Sunday with a free afternoon stretching out in front of me, I could think of no better time to revisit such a fantastic exhibition. 

When I think of the 1980's a few things automatically spring to mind. The Supermodels that dominated the fashion world, Wall Street and double breasted suits, Madonna and Micheal Jackson! So I was excited to learn in more depth the history of 1980's fashion.

Going through the entrance you are greeted with a pop of colour, movement and a blow up coat, oh so 80's. It sets the tone completely and you know you're in for a treat. 

John Galliano's final year collection from Central St Martin was inspired by the French revolution along with the club scene. He said 'The club scene fed me....Being with other creative people like Boy George was a critical experience for me.'  Dramatic and avant garde it's not hard to see why Galliano has become one of the most influential designers of our time.

I died for the evening wear, such clothing was shown at 'London Designer Collections and the Individual Clothes show' then the British fashion council was founded in 1983. Stephen Jones says he dew inspiration from the Blitz Club  for these head piece. Everyone from Lady Diana to Steve Stranger wore his pieces. I need, want, love these three dresses. They celebrate the female figure, hugging in the right places, along with being oh so sexy. Showing off a little skin but staying demure. Total perfection. 

By the stairs a projector showed a collection of catwalks. They are a world away from the runways we know today. Full of movement, colour, vitality and life. These models looked like they were having the time of their lives as they strutted their stuff and the designers fantastic collection down the catwalk.

It is almost like watching performance art rather than a runway. I think we should bring this back 100%.

I loved this Joseph Jumper, I makes me think of the Kenzo ones everyone is crazy for at the moment.  

When I saw this outfit I though of Pretty woman and Beverly hills. I have to watch that film now asap. Its a classic, Like Chanel it never goes out of style. 

Venturing upstairs I was welcomed by dramatic and theatrical collections. From heavily embellished Punk leather to Body conscientious, not quite the same as the body con we are used to hee, but obvi a heave influence on our collections today! As well as some fantastic Vivienne Westwood pieces. 

Last of all I popped into the 'Blitz' box (Blitz was the it magazine of the time). A mini cinematic experience, it really exhibited the relationship between London's vibrant and eclectic club scene and how it influenced a new generation of catwalk designers. Over all I was time very well spent I highly recommend going.

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