Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, Gucci, Missoni and Prada – does it ring a bell? Italy celebrates 150 years as a unified nation and in recognition and celebration of this landmark anniversary, the Somerset House brings together Berlusconi’s national economic pride.
The exhibition Masters of Style: Celebrating the Stories behind Italian Fashion is well organised and beautifully set up. With a simple though appealing design of freestanding exhibition walls designed by Carmody Groarke and made out of textiles the room scenario has a clean line but an intimate feel.
Six of the best known Italian designers were asked to contribute to this exhibition since they symolise ‚the variety, style and originality, not to mention the workmanship and quality, that has always ensured that the ‚Made in Italy‘ label has meant something very specific anywhere that high fashion, craftsmanship and respect for the past and a bold approach to the future are held esteen‚ as Curator and leading fashion commentator Colin McDowell describes it. There was no dolce far niente for Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Salvatore Ferragamo, Gucci, Missoni and Prada.
Each of the six Italian designers selected key images from their collections and campaign archives which they feel most reflect and convey their unique approach to Italian style. But it’s not just the style but also the glamour, the sophistication, the sex that make the Italian fashion mix.
The exhibition commemorates the passion, flair and creativity of the Italianita by bringing to life defining moments in iconic collections and campaigns. Through the personal stories, reflections and anecdotes of the Italian designers themselves, we are given a rare insight into the influences behind their most memorable images, celebrating their lasting and significant impact on the fashion industry.
Colin McDowell comments: ‚The expression ‘Made in Italy’ has become a global codeword for an embodiment of style, conveying Italy’s position at the forefront of international trends, inspiring and influencing the designers of tomorrow as it has done for over half a century. When it comes to self expression, effortless style and flair, nobody does it better or more naturally than the Italians. (Sponsor) Peroni Nastro Azzurro also embodies and upholds these typically Italian values so it makes perfect sense for Peroni to bring these Italian fashion icons together for the first time in what will be a truly amazing and enriching experience for visiting guests.‘
Until 14 August 2011, daily from 10am to 6pm, Late night openings until 8pm on Thursdays at the Embankment Galleries, Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA