On our first enrichment day of the year, a group of Year 10 textiles students made an exciting trip to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London, home to one of the world’s finest collections of fashion and design. The trip was an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the rich history of clothing, textiles, and accessories, inspiring creativity and appreciation for the art of fashion.

As we entered the fashion gallery, the vibrant displays immediately captured our attention. The gallery showcased garments spanning centuries, from elegant Victorian dresses to contemporary streetwear. Each piece told a story, reflecting the social and cultural contexts of its time. Students were particularly fascinated by the intricate craftsmanship of the historical pieces, gaining insight into the techniques used by designers and artisans.

Equipped with sketchbooks and cameras, students collected information about the exhibits. They carefully observed the textures, colours, and patterns of various garments, jotting down notes about their inspirations and what they found most striking.

We also had the opportunity to visit the cultural rooms, featuring beautiful artefacts from Japan, South Asia and Middle Eastern countries, allowing students to see first hand, the intricate patterns, and detailed pieces made in these countries. A final highlight of the day, was a brief walk through the jewellery room, which exhibited a huge number of precious stones, gems and iconic jewellery.

The trip to the V&A not only enriched their understanding of the subject but also encouraged them to think about the origins of fashion and how fashion intersects with culture and society.

For many students, this was their first time at the V&A, but I certainly hope it inspires them to visit again!