Jean Paul Gaultier at The Barbican

I had the pleasure of visiting one of London's latest, most anticipated fashion exhibitions last week'; 'The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk' at the Barbican. Organised by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and having already caused quite a stir in a number of museums, the all embracing irresistable legacy of Monsieur Gaultier appears to be stronger now than ever.

Collaborating with countless icons within fashion and music, Gaultier has claimed some of the most exalted and memorable moments of the 21st century, the most celebrated of which being the infamous cone bra for Madonna. He provided a breath of fresh air in the fashion industry at an opportune moment- when pop stars were dominating contemporary culture as the new 'icons' of society and when supermodels were household names. Fashion photography and film were becoming more developed, accessible and creative by the day; with Gaultier's vision fully embracing this.

If there was ever a fashion exhibition expressing the very epitome of  'feast for the eyes', this would be it!

'The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk' runs until 25th August at the Barbican...AND has its own cocktail bar!

Alice Luker
www.aliceluker.co.uk

'The Glamour of Italian Fashion 1945-2014' Exhibition at the V&A

I have a slightly unhealthy obsession with the V&A museum. Ever since I was commissioned to shoot an editorial there back in 2010 (involving not only models but cats and caviar!) I have felt quite a special connection, as though the V&A is my London refuge amidst the bustling streets I regularly prowl for meetings and shoots.

Sparked by my infactuation with the V&A and admiration for Italian fashion, I was delighted to be offered the opportunity to visit their press view of new exhibition 'The Glamour of Italian Fashion 1945-2014', enriched with flawless craftsmanship and a perfect compilation of words, illustrations and interesting documents at the forefront of the italian fashion industry between 1945-2014.

As a self confessioned film fanatic, I wholly appreciated the film references, from Audrey Hepburn's dress in War and Peace to the glimmering emerald Bulgari jewellery gifted to Elizabeth Tailor by Richard Burton during their 'Cleopatra' days in the early 60s.

There were a couple of standout pieces for me (habitually influenced by editorial concepts I currently have on the go)- mainly leopard print, leather and strong tailoring. I also appreciated the selection of more contemporary pieces, including a pair of Prada shoes from 2012, inspired by 1950s motor cars and a S/S 2014 Mui Mui coat.

The 2012 Prada shoes and a tailored leather dress by Trussardi from 1963 is below.

The exhibition is in depth and prosperously laid out over a satisfying number of themed rooms. It seems they have taken note of their often crampt video alcoves, with the key projection towards the end with significantly more room, fit for a clear(ish!) view.

'The Glamour of Italian Fashion 1945-2014' is well worth a visit and thoroughly inspiring..especially for a creative soul like myself. The gift shop you are directed through at the end is also notably tempting, with relevantly themed film posters, jewellery, accessories and books.

'The Glamour of Italian Fashion 1945-2014' opens Saturday 5th April - 27th July 2014
The V&A is open daily from 10-17:45 and until 22:00 every Friday

Alice Luker
www.aliceluker.co.uk