By Kitty Noofah
“For me, dress designing is not a profession but an art.” – Elsa Schiaparelli
The V&A Museum’s landmark exhibition, Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art, is the UK’s first major exhibition dedicated to the extraordinary legacy of Elsa Schiaparelli. Running until 8 November 2026 at the V&A South Kensington, the exhibition takes visitors on a remarkable journey from the revolutionary fashion house’s beginnings in the 1920s through to its exciting contemporary revival under Creative Director Daniel Roseberry. More than a fashion exhibition, it is a celebration of imagination, artistic expression, and fearless innovation that continues to inspire designers and artists around the world.
Kitty Noofah, on behalf of FabUK Magazine, attended the exhibition to experience firsthand the creativity and artistic brilliance that have defined the House of Schiaparelli for nearly a century. The exhibition offers readers an intimate look at one of fashion’s most influential visionaries, highlighting how Schiaparelli transformed clothing into wearable works of art while continuing to inspire today’s generation of designers.
From the moment visitors enter the Sainsbury Gallery, they are immersed in a world where fashion meets surrealism. Elsa Schiaparelli was renowned for challenging convention, collaborating with celebrated artists including Salvador Dalí and Jean Cocteau to create garments that blurred the boundaries between couture and fine art. Her iconic designs—including the famous Lobster Dress, Skeleton Dress, and imaginative accessories—demonstrate an extraordinary willingness to redefine beauty and elegance.
The exhibition also explores the remarkable rebirth of the House of Schiaparelli under Daniel Roseberry. His modern interpretations honour the founder’s daring spirit while introducing a bold contemporary vision that has captivated celebrities, fashion critics, and audiences worldwide. Spectacular couture gowns, intricate embroidery, sculptural silhouettes, and the house’s instantly recognisable gold jewellery showcase the craftsmanship that has made Schiaparelli one of today’s most talked-about luxury fashion houses.
One of the exhibition’s greatest strengths is its ability to place fashion within a wider artistic and cultural context. Through sketches, archival photographs, accessories, perfumes, jewellery, and couture masterpieces, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Schiaparelli’s influence on twentieth-century art, design, and popular culture. Each gallery reveals how her creativity challenged expectations and encouraged individuality, innovation, and confidence.
The exhibition is beautifully curated, allowing each piece to shine while illustrating the evolution of Schiaparelli’s visionary ideas across generations. Whether you are passionate about fashion, art, history, or design, there is something inspiring to discover throughout the experience.
Special thanks to Cristina Chapman, founder of BLAUW VAN C Jewellery brand, blauwvanc.com @blauwvanc for the kind invitation to attend this outstanding exhibition. Her continued support of the creative industries and appreciation for artistry made this memorable visit possible.
Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art is more than an exhibition—it is a celebration of fearless creativity, artistic innovation, and the enduring legacy of a designer who believed fashion could transcend clothing and become true art. It is a must-visit cultural experience for anyone seeking inspiration from one of fashion’s greatest pioneers.
Exhibition Information
Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art
V&A South Kensington
Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
The Sainsbury Gallery
Closing Date: Sunday, 8 November 2026
Tickets: Weekdays £28 | Weekends £30