The story behind the establishment of V&A is unlike any other. Founded in 1852 by Queen Victoria herself, the museum has evolved significantly over time. Its collections now span 500 years of human creativity. It is one of the oldest buildings constructed during the Victorian era. Learn more on edmontonka.com.
The History of the Fashion Museum
The museum’s first director, Henry Cole, envisioned it as a classroom to educate everyone. His mission was to improve the standards of British industry by teaching designers, manufacturers, and consumers about art and science. The acquisition and display of the finest examples of art and design supported this mission. Additionally, the founders aimed to show people how their ancestors dressed and the distinct characteristics of clothing from past eras.
Museum Collections
Visitors to this museum can explore ancient Chinese ceramics and evening gowns by famous designers, offering a fascinating journey through 5,000 years of human creativity.
The unique theatre and performance collections include over 3,000 stage costumes and accessories, ranging from the 18th century to the present day. Each collection features iconic headpieces, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of designers and costume makers who contributed to drama, film, dance, and other performances.
Overall, the museum’s fashion collection spans more than five centuries, making it the largest clothing collection in the world. Highlights include rare mantua dresses, 1930s evening wear, 1960s daywear, and post-war couture. The collection is particularly robust from the 18th century onwards and includes European fashion and accessories for men and women, as well as unique 19th-century garments created for the elite of China, India, and Japan. It also encompasses a wide array of accessories from around the globe, including footwear, hats, and jewelry.
A Public Institution
The V&A operates as a public body under the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport and is also a registered charity. The museum is primarily funded by the Board of Trustees. Dr. Tristram Hunt serves as the director, heading the executive team.
One of the museum’s standout collections is the “Golden Age” of couture, a pivotal decade in fashion history, which world-renowned designer Christian Dior famously dubbed the “Golden Age.” The V&A preserves fascinating artifacts from this era, allowing visitors to view these exquisite dresses in person and immerse themselves in the past.
The Mission
The museum’s primary mission is to be recognized as a global leader in art, design, and performance, enriching people’s lives through research and knowledge-sharing. The V&A strives to educate the public about fashion history and provide a world-class visitor experience.
By focusing on the relevance of its collections to the creative knowledge economy, the museum fosters international connections through cultural partnerships, exhibitions, and skill exchanges. This global outreach benefits both the institution and its visitors by accumulating knowledge and expertise.
Additionally, designers worldwide can develop their professional skills through the museum’s distance-learning courses and research opportunities, which offer insights into its collections and cutting-edge practices.
The V&A operates a development program where contemporary designers create exciting new galleries.
The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, welcoming visitors to explore its remarkable offerings.