The Victoria and Albert Museum in London is gearing up to unveil a new and exciting exhibition that is set to captivate both fashion enthusiasts and handbag lovers alike. Entitled “Bags: Inside Out,” this much-anticipated exhibition is poised to become the most extensive showcase in the UK dedicated to the iconic accessory – handbags. Opening its doors on April 25, 2020, “Bags: Inside Out” will delve deep into the enduring fascination with handbags in society, tracing their evolution from humble military rucksacks to coveted celebrity ‘It bags.’
Featuring a treasure trove of rare and intriguing items, the exhibition will display Queen Mary’s WWII gas mask bag, Winston Churchill’s iconic red despatch box, and Vivien Leigh’s elegant attaché case. Visitors can also expect to marvel at a vintage Louis Vuitton trunk from the early 1900s and marvel at modern creations like Stella McCartney’s sustainable backpack crafted from recycled ocean plastic waste. Not forgetting luxury brand Mulberry, the exhibition will also showcase samples and prototypes from their collection, adding to the diverse array of handbags on display.
Comprising approximately 300 objects in total, “Bags: Inside Out” will be divided into three main sections: ‘function,’ ‘status and identity,’ and ‘design and making.’ From opulent 16th-century purses fit for royalty to the ubiquitous tote bag, this exhibition promises to provide a comprehensive exploration of handbags across different cultures and historical periods, shedding light on their multifaceted roles.
Lucia Savi, the exhibition’s curator, emphasizes the dual nature of handbags as accessories that straddle the line between the private and public spheres. By delving into their historical context and contemporary significance, “Bags: Inside Out” aspires to spark inspiration in future designers while paying homage to the past.
A testament to the V&A Museum’s commitment to showcasing major fashion exhibitions, this latest showcase follows in the footsteps of successful past exhibitions such as “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” in 2018 and “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty” in 2015. Presented with generous sponsorship from Mulberry, “Bags: Inside Out” is slated to run from April 25, 2020, to January 31, 2021. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistry, functionality, and cultural significance of handbags throughout history at the V&A Museum. Fashion aficionados and history buffs, be sure to mark your calendars for an unforgettable exploration into the world of handbags like never before.
Learn more about the exhibition and book your tickets at the V&A Museum’s official website here.
For more information on the history and evolution of handbags, check out this insightful article here.
