Fashion in Motion: Hardy Amies

Fashion in Motion is a series of live fashion shows at the V&A featuring leading fashion designers from across the world. Hardy Amies, the great English couture house,
celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2006 and showcased highlights from its collection at the V&A.

The company was founded by Sir Hardy Amies in 1946. Although best known for being Queen Elizabeth II's official dressmaker for 50 years, his impact on fashion history extends far beyond society dressing. In his application of menswear tailoring techniques to the female form, Hardy Amies was among the first to practise 'power dressing'.

Hardy Amies was one of the founders of ready-to-wear clothing for men. In 1961, he made fashion history by staging the first men's ready-to-wear catwalk shows, at the Ritz Hotel in London. Following Sir Hardy's retirement in 2001, his protégé Ian Garlant inherited the title of Creative Director, giving both continuity and a new impetus to the house.

Womenswear highlights

Hardy Amies Womenswear, 2006. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Menswear highlights

Hardy Amies Menswear, 2006. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Explore previous Fashion in Motion catwalk events.

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Fashion in Motion: Hardy Amies, 2006. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London