Hollywood comes to South Ken

The exhibition is the first of its kind in the world, bringing together over 100 costumes from Hollywood's history. Dorothy’s ruby slippers, Holly Golightly’s little black dress and Marilyn Monroe’s infamous white halter neck from The Seven Year Itch are just some of the iconic costumes on show.

Speaking at the preview of the exhibition today, senior curator and practising costume designer Deborah Nadoolman Landis said: “There is a huge difference between fashion and costume design. Costume design is about brining these characters to life and making people believe they existed years before they arrived on the screen. Today is a big day for costume."

Like a film, the exhibition is divided into three ‘acts’. The first showcases the craft of costume design and the decisions designers make when dressing an actor for a role. The second room focuses on famous collaborations between directors and costume designers, before the final ‘finale’ which includescost costumes from films such as James Bond, Kill Bill, Batman, Harry Potter, Chicago and Atonement.

The exhibition runs from 20 October- 27 January 2013. To book tickets ring 020 7942 2000 or visit the V&A’s website.

Daisy Wyatt

A longer version of this article will appear in our November edition.