The Height of Fashion

Some women need look no further than their closet to get a glimpse of couture clothing. But for most, it's an exclusive art form known only through pictures or the occasional museum exhibit. Opening Sept. 22 at London's V&A is one such show that gives visitors an almost unprecedented in-depth look into couture's most glamorous era. "The Golden Age of Couture: Paris and London 1947-1957" will display more than 100 dresses designed by haute couture's most revered names, among them Givenchy, Balmain, Balenciaga, Schiaparelli and, of course, Dior. The exhibit covers everything from suits and cocktail dresses to the undersides of evening gowns to documentary artifacts like photos by Cecil Beaton, film and audio recordings and original bills of sale. For history buffs and fashion fanatics alike, it's a must-see.