Exhibition preview: Fifty Fabulous Frocks, Fashion Museum, Bath, February 2 – December 31 2013

Two years in the making, the Fashion Museum’s carnival of fashion is a thorough breeze through slinky jersey evening dresses, classic Chanel suits, redolent Tissot paintings and purple-fringed ensembles.

Showcasing the world-renowned resident collection alongside the 20th century’s finest – Schiaparelli, Poiret, Vionnet, Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent, to name a few – it also summons the splendour of Downton Abbey, The Great Gatsby and Anna Karenina. An ornately embroidered early 18th century chap’s coat makes acquaintance with a pair of bondage trousers by Dame Vivienne Westwood.

For those who can’t wait, some of the most glamorous numbers are being released on Twitter and Facebook.

“We hope people will create a buzz across social media by sharing these images,” says Museum Manager Rosemary Harden.

“We’re offering our followers an advance look at some of the fabulous garments which will be on display.

“They range from our oldest piece – an exquisite 17th century silver tissue dress – to one of the latest Burberry creations.”

• Open 10.30am-4pm (5pm March-October, 10.30am-4pm November and December, closed December 25 and 26). Admission £5.75-£7.75 (family ticket £22, saver ticket to Fashion Museum and Roman Baths £9.75-£16.25, family ticket £46). Book online.
  

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