A MUST-SEE EVENT DURING LONDON FASHION WEEK
London Fashion Week is always a dazzling celebration of creativity, style, and culture and 2025 is no exception. In September, the capital transforms into the epicentre of global fashion, drawing designers, models, editors, and style enthusiasts from around the world. But beyond the catwalks and exclusive showcases, there is one cultural highlight that every fashion lover, art enthusiast, and curious visitor should add to their itinerary: Gianni Versace Retrospective at Arches London Bridge.
This extraordinary exhibition is more than just a celebration of a designer’s legacy; it’s an immersive journey through fashion history, housed in one of London’s most atmospheric cultural venues. If you’re looking for the perfect complement to Fashion Week’s energy, this is it.
Why This Exhibition Is the Talk of London
Gianni Versace remains one of the most influential names in fashion. His bold vision, daring cuts, and fearless celebration of glamour defined the 1980s and 90s, shaping the era of the supermodel and blurring the lines between fashion, music, and celebrity.
The retrospective at Arches London Bridge is the largest Gianni Versace exhibition ever staged in the UK, featuring over 450 original vintage designs. Among them are iconic garments once worn by Princess Diana, Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and Elton John, pieces that helped define a cultural moment.
Highlights include:
An homage to Elton John’s complete collection of Gianni Versace-designed shirts
Princess Diana’s tailored ensembles, which symbolised her modern, independent style.
Runway pieces worn by the original supermodels, captured by photographers like Richard Avedon.
Every garment is a story in itself, not only of Versace’s creative genius but also of the power of fashion to shape identity and culture.
The Venue: Arches London Bridge
Nestled beneath the historic railway arches just steps from London Bridge Station, Arches London Bridge has quickly become one of the city’s most exciting cultural destinations. With 11,000 square feet of flexible exhibition space spread across five interconnected arches, the venue offers a raw yet refined backdrop for large-scale installations, art exhibitions, and events.
For visitors, the experience is seamless:
A newly renovated bar and café provide the perfect spot for a pre- or post-exhibition drink.
A curated shop features stylish mementos, books, and design-led gifts.
The location places you at the heart of London, just moments from the River Thames and surrounded by some of the capital’s most dynamic cultural attractions.
In many ways, Arches London Bridge itself reflects the spirit of Versace: bold, contemporary, and unapologetically stylish.
Why It’s the Perfect Fashion Week Outing
During London Fashion Week, the city buzzes with invitation-only events and exclusive shows. But the Gianni Versace Retrospective at Arches is open to all, making it one of the most accessible yet high-impact fashion experiences of the season.
Whether you’re a fashion insider, a student of design, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and craftsmanship, this exhibition offers:
Inspiration: See up close how Versace’s artistry reshaped fashion.
Accessibility: Unlike the runway, you can explore every detail at your own pace.
Atmosphere: Set in a dramatic, architectural space beneath the arches of London Bridge.
Cultural depth: Learn about Versace’s collaborations with music, film, and art that continue to resonate today.
For those visiting London during Fashion Week, it’s the ideal way to immerse yourself in the city’s style scene beyond the official calendar.
Things To Do Nearby: Make a Day of It
One of the joys of visiting Arches London Bridge is its location. Surrounded by a vibrant mix of history, food, art, and nightlife, it’s easy to turn your trip to the exhibition into a full cultural outing. Here are a few nearby gems worth exploring:
1. Borough Market
A short stroll from Arches, Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most beloved food destinations. Whether you’re grabbing artisan pastries, sampling global street food, or sitting down for a fine dining experience, it’s a feast for all the senses.
2. The Shard
For a bird’s-eye view of the city, head up to The Shard. The viewing platform offers sweeping panoramas of London — the perfect complement to a day steeped in visual splendour.
3. Southbank Riverside Walk
From London Bridge, you can enjoy a leisurely riverside walk past landmarks like the Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, and Southbank Centre. Along the way, you’ll find pop-up bars, book markets, and street performers adding to the atmosphere.
4. Contemporary Art Spaces
London Bridge is a hub for contemporary culture. White Cube Bermondsey, one of Europe’s leading galleries for modern art, is just a short walk away. Pairing Versace’s fashion with contemporary art makes for a rich cultural double bill.
5. Riverside Dining
After the exhibition, enjoy dinner at one of the riverside restaurants nearby. Options range from refined dining at Oblix in The Shard to cosy riverside pubs offering a classic London experience.
Why Gianni Versace Still Matters Today
More than two decades after his untimely passing, Gianni Versace’s influence continues to ripple through the worlds of fashion, music, and culture. His fearless embrace of colour, print, and sensuality paved the way for a generation of designers who continue to push boundaries.
At a time when fashion is increasingly global and interconnected, Versace’s legacy feels especially resonant. He was among the first to truly merge fashion with celebrity, music, and art, creating a model that today’s industry still follows.
Visiting this retrospective is not just about admiring beautiful clothes; it’s about understanding how fashion shapes culture, identity, and even politics.
planning your visit
Gianni Versace Retrospective at Arches London Bridge is open for a limited time only, making it a true must-see event during London Fashion Week.
Location: Arches London Bridge, just steps from London Bridge Station.
Exhibition size: 450+ original vintage designs.
Facilities: Bar, café, and shop on site.
Nearby attractions: Borough Market, The Shard, Tate Modern, White Cube Bermondsey.
Whether you’re in London for Fashion Week, planning a weekend in the city, or looking for cultural events near London Bridge, this exhibition offers a truly unforgettable experience.
final word: Don’t miss it
London is full of things to do, but only rarely does an exhibition of this scale and glamour arrive on our doorstep. During Fashion Week, when the city’s style credentials are on full display, there is no better time to celebrate one of the greatest designers of the modern era.
So, if you’re wondering what to do in London this September, whether you’re a lifelong fashion devotee or simply curious, make your way to Arches London Bridge. Step into the world of Gianni Versace, and discover why this retrospective is being hailed as one of London’s most significant cultural events of the year.
Book your tickets now and be part of fashion history.
In other news…
