FIRST LOOK: Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show arrives at V&A Dundee

The new exhibition opens this week (Picture: Grant Anderson / Supplied)

V&A Dundee is set to unveil a major new exhibition this week, and it’s one that brings fashion, theatre and history together in a truly immersive way.

Opening on 3 April, Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show takes visitors behind the scenes of one of the most iconic elements of global fashion - the runway. Spanning over 125 years of fashion history, the exhibition explores how catwalk shows have evolved from intimate salon presentations into the large-scale spectacles seen around the world today.

The exhibition features a mock-up hair salon (Picture: Grant Anderson / Supplied)

At the heart of the exhibition is a striking raised catwalk installation, showcasing original runway looks from some of the biggest names in fashion including Alexander McQueen, Chanel and Dior. Across more than 350 objects, visitors will find a mix of iconic outfits, rare film footage, photography, invitations and behind-the-scenes material that captures the creativity and ambition behind each show.

Designs from famous fashion brands are on show (Picture: Grant Anderson / Supplied)

The exhibition features work from some of the most influential designers in history, including Balenciaga, Gucci, Prada and Vivienne Westwood, alongside pieces from Scottish designers such as Christopher Kane, Pam Hogg and Charles Jeffrey. Exclusive to V&A Dundee, visitors will also be able to see original runway looks from Iris van Herpen.

One of the standout highlights is a collection of historic fashion dolls from the Balenciaga archive, displayed in the UK for the first time. Created as part of a 1945 initiative known as Théâtre de la Mode, these miniature couture figures played a role in reviving the French fashion industry after the Second World War.

The exhibition features over 350 objects on display (Picture: Grant Anderson / Supplied)

The exhibition also shines a spotlight on Scotland’s connection to the fashion world. From early fashion parades in Glasgow in the 1930s to Dior’s historic shows in Scotland and its return in 2024, the influence of Scottish landscapes, textiles and heritage is woven throughout the exhibition.

Visitors will also get a glimpse into the changing nature of fashion shows over time. From the rise of youth culture in the 1960s and the supermodel era of the 1990s, to modern digital showcases and collaborations like Balenciaga’s Simpsons runway, the exhibition reflects how fashion continues to evolve alongside society.

Catwalk runs until 17 January 2027 (Picture: Grant Anderson / Supplied)

Beyond the runway itself, Catwalk recreates backstage moments and reveals the work of stylists, make-up artists and photographers who help bring each show to life. Interactive elements, including the chance to design your own fashion show and try virtual make-up styles from different decades, add another layer to the experience.

Running until 17 January 2027, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the creativity, innovation and cultural impact of the fashion show up close, right here in Dundee