Fashion & Design

Overview

Within the venerable walls of the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, the 'Fashion & Design' sub-spot, encompassed by its broader Art, Design, and Fashion galleries, offers a captivating journey through centuries of human creativity and innovation. These thoughtfully curated spaces showcase a remarkable spectrum of decorative art, pioneering design, and evolving fashion trends, demonstrating how aesthetics and functionality have profoundly shaped everyday life. Spread across multiple floors, the galleries invite visitors to explore a treasure trove of objects, from exquisite historical garments to cutting-edge contemporary designs.

This particular section of the museum transcends a mere display of artifacts; it's an immersive experience that highlights the intricate interplay between art, technology, and culture, revealing the stories behind the objects and the minds that conceived them. It's a place where the influence of design on society is not just observed but deeply felt, offering a comprehensive look at how creativity has continually propelled Scottish and international design forward.

History & Cultural Background

The National Museum of Scotland's commitment to preserving and presenting the history of fashion and design is evident in its extensive collections. The modern and contemporary fashion holdings alone are comprehensive, featuring garments, accessories, paper patterns, toiles, fashion sketches, technical drawings, fabric samples, jewellery, and a wealth of supporting archival material.

A significant milestone in the collection's development was the acquisition in 2005 of the internationally renowned archive of British fashion designer Jean Muir, adding an estimated 18,000 items. This forms a crucial part of the narrative, alongside earlier treasures such as the strong collection of 19th-century womenswear donated by Charles William Stewart. Beyond clothing, the museum delves into Scotland's rich textile heritage, showcasing items from historically important industries like the United Turkey Red Company, the renowned Paisley and Edinburgh shawl manufacturing, and the distinctive Fair Isle knitting tradition. The collection further strengthened its 20th-century holdings with the acquisition of the archive of émigré textile designer and colourist Bernat Klein in 2010, illustrating a continuous dedication to documenting the breadth of design innovation.

What Makes It Special

What truly distinguishes the 'Fashion & Design' area is its ability to present a holistic view of human ingenuity across various disciplines. The 'Fashion and Style' gallery on Level 1 encourages visitors to engage directly with the exhibits, inviting them to 'walk their own catwalk' through centuries of textile and fashion creativity. Here, one can marvel at creations by iconic designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Zandra Rhodes, Jean Muir, and Scotland's own Pringle of Scotland.

The 'Making and Creating' gallery on Level 3 offers a deeper dive into the processes and inspirations behind artistic endeavors, even featuring a rare artist's proof by Picasso. On Level 5, 'Design for Living' traces the evolution of ideas that shaped a century of design, from the grandeur of the Great Exhibition to the optimism of the Festival of Britain, notably displaying intricate embroideries by May Morris. Adjacent, the 'Art of Living' gallery exhibits stunning decorative arts that embody beauty, taste, power, and devotion, including the astronomical Hamilton-Rothschild Tazza and Emperor Napoleon's tea service. The inclusion of an extravagant suit worn by Sir Elton John adds a touch of modern glamour, highlighting the breadth and celebrity appeal of the collection.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Beyond the grand displays, the 'Fashion & Design' galleries are rich with fascinating individual stories. Visitors might encounter the 'Bloom the Pill' hat by Glasgow-based milliner William Chambers, a piece inspired by the 1920s fashion editor Francis Barkerson and the surrealist designs of Elsa Schiaparelli. Another remarkable hat, 'Dragonfly' by Emma Yeo, draws inspiration from nature and architecture; famously, a black glitter plastic version was even worn by Lady Gaga to a foundation launch. Stephen Jones, a celebrated milliner, considers his 'Rose Royce' design, also on display, among his personal favourites.

The museum is not just about historical retrospection; it actively engages with contemporary collecting, featuring works from national and international designers like Holly Fulton and Phoebe English, and consciously highlighting efforts towards sustainable design practices. For those with a creative spark, the 'Fashion and Style' gallery even offers an interactive digital game to try their hand at fashion design, making the experience both educational and engaging. It's these personal narratives and interactive elements that weave a compelling tapestry of human expression and design evolution.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the 'Fashion & Design' sub-spot within the National Museum of Scotland is a journey through time and artistic vision. As Scotland's most popular visitor attraction, the museum itself is easily accessible and offers free entry, welcoming all to explore its vast collections. The galleries, spanning several floors, are designed to be explored at one's own pace, offering ample opportunity for contemplation and discovery.

Whether you're drawn to the intricate details of historical garments, the bold statements of avant-garde design, or the social narratives embedded in everyday objects, this section promises a rich and enlightening experience. It's a place where history comes alive through tangible forms, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of fashion and design. From its world-class collections to its interactive elements, the museum provides a comprehensive and stimulating look at how human creativity has consistently adorned and shaped our world.