The V&A Dundee’s new exhibition, “Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show,” offers an immersive journey through over 100 years of fashion presentation history. It chronicles the catwalk’s transformation from the intimate, discreet salons of 19th-century London and Paris to the grand, theatrical spectacles we know today. The exhibition showcases a diverse array of exhibits, including pieces by Scottish designers, elements recreating a backstage set, and iconic props such as a Chanel-branded megaphone.
A memorable incident highlighting the catwalk’s unpredictable past involves legendary shoemaker Manolo Blahnik. In 1971, still relatively new to the craft, Blahnik designed shoes for Ossie Clark’s London show. He famously forgot to incorporate steel pins into the heels, causing models to wobble and lose balance as they walked. While Blahnik initially believed this spelled the end of his career, the press embraced it as an intentional stylistic innovation. The renowned photographer Sir Cecil Beaton even coined the phrase “a new way of walking” to describe the distinctive gait. These very sandals – crafted from green suede and adorned with ivy leaf embellishments – are among the captivating treasures currently on display, illustrating a pivotal moment in fashion history.