Popperfoto via Getty Images©The V&A Dundee has finally reopened its doors today, with a major exhibition on the work of fashion icon Mary Quant.
This is the first international retrospective on the British designer, who was responsible for nothing short of a fashion revolution.
A revolution that changed a whole generation — and still continues today.
A true legend of fashion
Mary Quant is, of course, famous for popularising the miniskirt. She encouraged inspired young women to rebel against the traditional clothing worn by their mothers and grandmothers.
Her designs offered many different versions of femininity, and challenged the conventional gender stereotypes of post-war Britain.
The exhibition includes the pioneering “Wet Collection” PVC rainwear and a jute miniskirt.
It also features designs that playfully subverted menswear at a time when women still couldn’t wear trousers in formal settings.
Photograph courtesy of V&A Dundee.
Visitors will also hear the stories of women who made outfits from Mary Quant’s dressmaking patterns.
These stories came to light thanks to the museum’s #SewQuant social media campaign.
Our very own recently retired Margaret Scott contributed — and even got to go along to the preview!
“Mary gave so much power and strength to so many people,” Heather Tilbury Phillips, former Director of Mary Quant Ltd, said.
“Mary used her designs to change the way people looked at the world. And to let people create better lives for themselves.
“Mary is a true legend of fashion.”
She helped change society for the better
Sophie McKinlay, Director of Programme at V&A Dundee, said: “Mary Quant is a pioneering designer who epitomises the energy and excitement of London in the 1960s.
“Through her confident, playful designs she helped change society for the better.
“She gave women greater freedom to wear what they wanted, and to choose clothes that looked and felt good.
“It is a remarkable achievement for a designer to be so loved and admired decades after beginning her career.
“We are very excited indeed to be reopening V&A Dundee with this wonderful exhibition.”
Photograph courtesy of V&A Dundee.
Attending safely
A number of measures are in place across the museum to ensure a safe, welcoming and experience.
All visitors now need to book free tickets to enter the museum. Tickets can be booked at www.vam.ac.uk/dundee.
Mary Quant at V&A Dundee is supported by Barclays Private Bank.
The exhibition was curated by Jenny Lister and Stephanie Wood of the V&A.
It was first shown at V&A South Kensington from April 6 2019 to 16 February 2020.
Book your tickets today
The exhibition will run until 17 January 2021.
Tickets for Mary Quant are on sale now at www.vam.ac.uk/dundee
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Iain McDonald I am the Digital Content Editor at the “Friend”, making me responsible for managing the flow of interesting and entertaining content on the magazine’s website and social media channels.
