5 must-see fashion exhibitions, from Downton Abbey looks to Chinese silk

From legendary film and TV costumes in London to the history of Chinese silk in Hong Kong, inspired exhibits abound this September

Fashion is taking centre stage in exhibitions worldwide this autumn. In New York, “Dress, Dreams and Desire: Fashion and Psychoanalysis”, curated by Valerie Steele, explores themes of the body and the unconscious. Meanwhile, “Glen Luchford. Atlas” in Milan highlights the British fashion photographer’s bold vision. London celebrates royal fashion and period costume design with “Marie Antoinette Style” and “Costume Couture: Sixty Years of Cosprop”. In Hong Kong, “A History of China in Silk: The Chris Hall Collection” traces the story of silk with pieces dating back centuries.

Few royals have been as admired, scrutinised and criticised as Marie Antoinette, the last Queen of France. London’s Victoria & Albert Museum is paying homage to the “most fashionable queen in history” with “Marie Antoinette Style”. Personal objects – some of them never seen outside her palace in Versailles – as well as creations from modern-day designers and costumes from the Sofia Coppola Oscar-winning film Marie Antoinette are part of the exhibit. From September 20 to March 22, 2026

Silk has always been closely associated with China. The delicate and luxurious fabric takes centre stage in “A History of China in Silk: The Chris Hall Collection at the Hong Kong Palace Museum”. With pieces dating from the Warring States period (circa 475 – 221BC) all the way up to the 20th century, the show explores silk’s evolution, from weaving and dyeing techniques, to its role as a symbol of cultural exchange. Opening September 26.