Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950

The redesigned, two-storey Fashion gallery opens with an exhibition of some 80 ballgowns created by British fashion designers over the past 60 years. The show looks at the history of the ballgown as the garment of choice for formal and red carpet events and includes examples worn by the likes of Kate Moss and Elizabeth Hurley. Designers represented include Hardy Amies, Ossie Clark, Stella McCartney, Hussein Chalayan, Alexander McQueen and Gareth Pugh. Royal gowns on display include a Norman Hartnell gown designed for the Queen Mother and Princess Diana's 'Elvis Dress', designed by Catherine Walker. Displays include film and contextual images showing the development of ballgowns from the era of coming out balls to today's celebrity events. Accessories including bags, gloves and shoes are also on show.