Fashion Inspired by Art
Frida Kahlo
In the wake of the iconic Mexican artist’s recent birthday, we look at how Frida Kahlo has shaped and inspired modern day fashion and design. Designers like Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy and Jean Paul Gaultier have all drawn inspiration from her style and the recent overblown glamour of Dolce & Gabbana’s Alta Moda show, set against the backdrop of Lake Como has pulled inspiration from opulent Victoriana, with an undercurrent of Kahlo-esque florals (see Naomi Campbell’s jaw dropping ensemble), Mexican-inspired colour palettes and bright, bold full skirts.
Vogue journalist Laura Tortora discusses Frida inspired fashion on the runway: “Long, full circle skirts, maxi shawls, braided hair, floral headbands, unruly brows. These features, all together, unmistakably and unquestionably evoke and recall one person only, the great Frida Khalo. A woman who left a mark not only for her art, that made her world-famous, but also for her unique and iconic style, beyond all trends – as it was deeply rooted in her Mexican heritage – so much it has greatly, and always, influenced fashion, even today. Even on the runway. Numerous designers have been inspired through the years by her great personality, and have dedicated to Frida outfits or even entire collections”.
Frida fans can enjoy a fresh perspective on her compelling life story through her most intimate personal belongings displayed at the iconic Victoria & Albert Museum, London, between now and November 2018. The website states “this exhibition presents an extraordinary collection of personal artefacts and clothing belonging to the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Locked away for 50 years after her death, this collection has never before been exhibited outside Mexico”. Step back in time to 1920s-1940s Mexico and breathe in the colours and textures of her favourite garments, including her beautifully decorated and highly personal prosthetic leg.
For those planning their early autumn event calendar, we highly recommend visiting the V&A this September where you will also find the Fashioned From Nature exhibition, a display which “will present fashionable dress alongside natural history specimens, innovative new fabrics and dyeing processes, inviting visitors to think about the materials of fashion and the sources of their clothes” – a must visit for the sustainable fashion conscious.
The V&A is conveniently a 20 minute tube ride away (or 40 minute walk via Hyde Park) from our pop up sale location of 35 Baker Street, where we will be making our monthly guest appearance on the 13th & 14th September. Our selection of high fashion clothing from Frida-inspired designers like Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Moschino will be set amongst a curated collection of pieces from lesser-known boutique brands, high end luxury designer handbags, covetable men’s fashion and everywoman’s best friend for 2018 – printed silk scarves. Enjoy perusing our collection of iconic Versace designs, abstract Givenchy prints and bold florals from Chanel (oh-so-Kahlo!). Our sale opens on Thursday 13th until Friday 14th September, book your free ticket here.
If you can’t wait until September to shop our rare handbag and scarf collection, our online Flash Sale will be opening very soon. Keep your eye out on our social media channels and keep checking our shop to see if you can be one of the first to snap up that floral printed silk scarf you’ve always wanted.