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Coco Chanel, Armani, Balmain and Gucci all have one common goal - to glamorize the world with their glitzy designs. But after the models have left the runways and celebs vacate the red carpets, their stylish images leave lasting imprints in the minds of the everyday fashionista.
But thanks to museums who celebrate their ensembles with permanent collections and events, we can traipse the world seeking sights of these designers' elaborate masterpieces. So here are seven museums that bring couture to their designer-crazed fans in true high-fashion style with world-famous designer labels.
Bath, England: Fashion Museum
If names like Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Anna Sui ignite a fire in your bones, then you'll love the exhibits at the Fashion Museum. The name of the museum speaks for itself, and fashion is definitely what you will see in this couture heaven. You'll be obliged to step into the 1700s when images of Georgian embroidered wide-skirted Court dresses appear before your eyes. British fashion designer David Sassoon's elaborate gowns worn by Hollywood's elite are also a must-see, and provide an opportunity to get up close to the celebrities themselves.
From the chic to the classic and outfits you'll never be caught dead in, the Fashion Museum has it all. As one of the world's greatest galleries bursting at the seams with fabulous style, you'll see the world's top designers replicate the 18th century, mannequins dressed in timeless pieces as well as the Dress of the Year. You may want to change your entire wardrobe after peeking inside this museum dedicated to high-class fashion.
Florence, Italy: Museo Salvatore Ferragamo
There is nothing like putting your best foot forward, especially with a great pair of shoes on.
A glass slipper brought Cinderella her prince and with a click of the heels of her ruby red shoes Dorothy found her way home - if you don't believe in the magic of a stylish shoe, let the Museo Salvatore Ferragamo be your proof.
The museum brings the imagination of fairytales to its visitors through the artistry of shoemaking by the hands of the acclaimed namesake Salvatore Ferragamo. The displays of the museum include designs he created for Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, as well as a myriad of other themed footwear. Every fashionista knows that the perfect fit of that fabulous heel is the best compliment to any outfit. And at Museo Salvatore Ferragamo you'll see how one man's creativity has tapped into our closets with shoes, shoes and more shoes.
New York, NY: Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) celebrates the world of high fashion with over 30,000 garments. Located in the department of The Costume Institute, you'll experience the color blocks of Yves Saint Laurent's famous French-style dress, British Court dresses dating back to 1750, in addition to Christian Dior's legendary "Bar Suit". A step into the presence of these fabulous frocks will take you all around the world, to the 15th century and beyond.
Visitors are also taken on a journey through the "Costume: Art of Dress," which is narrated by fashion icon Sarah Jessica Parker. Blessed with an eyeful of couture pieces, the Institute may just be the place to experience your very own "Sex in the City" flair.
London, England: Victoria and Albert Museum
Who says you need to have blue blood in order to feel like a royal?
At the Victoria and Albert Museum, you too can feel the perks of monarchs through the one-of-a-kind collections showcased here. History comes to life through hats, gowns, corsets, petticoats, lounge suits and capes which are all inspired by the prominent queen and her husband. Their interesting designs delve deeply into the 19th century allowing their guests to imagine traipsing around glamorously like the royal family.
And if you happen to be a fan of Versace, Armani, Prada or Gucci, then there's a place at The Glamour of Italian Fashion just for you. Not only can you view the museum's exhibits on mannequins, fashions-divas can watch them live and in action from the catwalk. There's no need to look any further for couture when you have royal digs right at your fingertips brought to you by the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Antwerp, Belgium: ModeMuseum of Antwerp (MoMu)
When in Belgium dress as Belgians do.
You haven't seen fashion come alive like that of the ModeMuseum. This world-class gallery promises the "ultimate fashion experience" for enthusiasts who truly appreciate the art of out-of-the-box styles. In fact, you may forget about everything you know about fashion once you see the glitzy exhibits that decorate every inch of this art show.
You won't find MoMu's chic masterpieces tucked behind glass cases. The museum proudly dedicates its spaces to allowing trendy visitors to get up close to its timeless masterpieces. Whether you're capturing the feathers of Birds of Paradise exhibition which praises haute couture or Tim Van Steenbergen distinctive creations, MoMu arguably provides one the best fashion shows in the world. MoMu links the past and present through costumes and groundbreaking demonstrations, making it one of the best places to get your designer fix. Especially since you can feel the authenticity of its fabrics with your own hands.
Spain: Cristobal Balenciaga Museoa
There is something quite remarkable about basking in the presence of the pale-green gros de Naples dress, "Rays of sunshine" brooch, the Cocktail dress in black lace, as well as the Noche. With more than 1,000 pieces to rummage through, the Cristobal Balenciaga Museoa completely surrounds its guests with fashions so dynamic they have been dubbed some of the world's most important designs.
So if you find yourself wanting to revamp your closet after you've witnessed these stylish trends, then you too have been bitten by the influence of Balenciaga's creations.
Paris, France: Palais Galleria, Museum of Fashion
Last but not least, we've entered the mecca of couture, which is none other than the city of Paris.
If you here the silent whispers of old Hollywood and royal families that means you've entered the fashion décor of Palais Galleria. Sitting in the heart of one of Paris' most extravagant boutiques, this museum offers an extensive collection of international ensembles.
Yes, you'll be blessed by the masterpieces of Christian Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, Chanel and Balmain- whose creations have been seen on red carpets all over the world. From distinguished outfits of the 1900s to the dazzling feathers of haute couture, the Palais Galleria transform its exhibitions into a "who wore it best" demonstration. If you want to showcase your best Audrey Hepburn or Princess Grace of Monaco attire on your next night on the town, there's no place like Palais Galleria to get truly inspired.
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