London is always a fashion capital, but in 2025 Kensington takes center stage as a prime destination for style enthusiasts. With an incredible lineup of fashion-focused exhibitions, from royal wardrobes to cutting-edge design, plus its elegant shopping streets and easy access to London’s cultural landmarks, there’s no better place to stay for a chic getaway.
Here’s your guide to this year’s must-see fashion exhibitions and events in Kensington and beyond, making this charming neighborhood more stylish than ever for your 2025 London visit!
1. Dress Codes at Kensington Palace
13 March – 30 November 2025
Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens
Where better to start a fashion-inspired trip than Kensington Palace, home to centuries of royal style? The new Dress Codes exhibition will explore the evolution of royal and court dress, showcasing historic garments from the 16th century to the present. From the dazzling gowns of Queen Elizabeth II to the elegant ensembles worn by Princess Diana, this exhibition dives into the hidden meanings and strict traditions behind regal fashion.
With its grand architecture and beautifully manicured gardens, Kensington Palace itself is a must-visit for any fashion lover – a place where style and British history intertwine.
View this post on Instagram
2. Tomorrow’s Wardrobe at the Design Museum
14 September 2024 – August 2025
The Design Museum, Kensington High St
What does the future of fashion look like? The Tomorrow’s Wardrobe exhibition at the Design Museum in Kensington takes a deep dive into the innovative and sustainable approaches shaping the industry. Featuring designs by Stella McCartney, Ahluwalia and Phoebe English, this exhibit highlights how fashion is evolving in response to climate change, new materials and shifting consumer habits. It’s a fascinating look at how we’ll dress in the years ahead – perfect for those who love the intersection of style and sustainability.
3. Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style at the Design Museum
28 March – 17 August 2025
The Design Museum, Kensington High St
Few items in our wardrobes have changed as dramatically as swimwear and Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style coming to the Design Museum explores how beachside fashion has evolved over the past century.
From vintage 1920s bathing suits to modern performance swimwear, Splash! will showcase iconic designs, pop culture influences and even swimwear worn by celebrities. Expect to see pieces like Pamela Anderson’s famous red Baywatch swimsuit, alongside a broader discussion of how swimwear reflects social and cultural shifts.
View this post on Instagram
4. Cartier at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)
12 April – 16 November 2025
V&A South Kensington
The Cartier exhibition at the V&A in South Kensington is the first major retrospective on the legendary jewelry house in nearly 30 years. Showcasing over 350 exquisite pieces, this dazzling display will include royal tiaras worn by European monarchs, iconic Cartier watches and jewelry and never-before-seen sketches from the brand’s archives. A must-see for those who appreciate timeless elegance and masterful craftsmanship!
(Credit: V&A Museum)
5. Design and Disability at the V&A
7 June 2025 – 15 February 2026
V&A South Kensington
Fashion is about more than style – it’s also about accessibility and inclusivity. The Design and Disability exhibition at the V&A celebrates the disabled, Deaf and neurodiverse designers and artists who are reshaping the fashion world. Featuring adaptive clothing, innovative textiles and inclusive design breakthroughs, this exhibit will highlight how fashion can be both beautiful and functional.
Antoinetta, 2005 by Manolo Blahnik (Credit: V&A Museum)
6. Marie Antoinette Style at the V&A
20 September 2025 – 22 March 2026
V&A South Kensington
One of history’s most fashion-forward figures, Marie Antoinette, takes center stage in a lavish exhibition arriving this autumn at the V&A. From her extravagant court gowns to her influence on film, art and pop culture, this exhibit will be a deep dive into the world of opulence and grandeur. For anyone who loves historical fashion and luxury, the Marie Antoniette Style exhibition will be pure indulgence.
7. The Face Magazine: Culture Shift at the National Portrait Gallery
20 February – 18 May 2025
National Portrait Gallery
While not in Kensington, this exhibition is worth a short trip to the National Portrait Gallery. The Face magazine was one of the most influential forces in fashion and pop culture, shaping the ’80s, ’90s and early 2000s style scene. This exhibit showcases iconic covers, fashion editorials and photography that captured an era and influenced the way we dress today.
Bonus: The Devil Wears Prada Musical in the West End
24 October 2024 – 31 May 2025
Dominion Theatre, West End
For a glamorous night out, why not pair a day of fashion exhibitions with a trip to the West End to see The Devil Wears Prada? With an original score by Elton John and Vanessa Williams starring as Miranda Priestly, this stage adaptation brings the high-stakes world of fashion magazines to life. Even better, it’s just a quick Tube journey or bus ride from Kensington to the Dominion Theatre in London’s West End.
Plan Your Kensington Stay – The Stylish Choice for 2025!
Stay on one of London’s most luxurious streets at the Phillimore.
With so many exciting fashion exhibitions, lovely streets and easy access to the West End, there’s no better place to stay than Kensington in 2025. Our London Perfect vacation rentals in Kensington provide a luxurious, comfortable base for your trip – whether you’re here for fashion, culture or simply the charm of London’s most elegant neighborhood. Book your stay today and experience the best of London in style!
