London Days: Hyde Park Walks and the Schiaparelli Exhibition at the V&A

London always has so much to offer, no matter your interests. I’ve found plenty to keep me busy these last few days, from serene strolls in Hyde Park to surrealism and sequins at the Schiaparelli exhibition at the V&A. And visits with my London friends, of course! Today’s post will be photo-heavy, as I love taking you along when I travel.

Getting Outside: Walking Off Jet Lag in Hyde Park

I’ve definitely been getting my steps in since my arrival! One of my tried-and-true ways to minimize jet lag is to get outside and MOVE as much as possible. Hyde Park is a favorite spot to walk and recharge. It’s beautiful any time of year, but I really love early spring, when it feels like everything is waking up.

A Neighborhood Wander (and a Hidden Gem or Two)

I’ve also spent a few thousand steps getting re-acquainted with the neighborhood…

Michelin House is one of my favorite buildings in London. It was originally built in 1910-11, at the end of the Art Nouveau period and beginning of Art Deco. It’s now a multi-use building, with retail, dining, and office space.

Sweet Stop: Cedric Grolet’s Incredible Desserts

My London friend Tarra Rosenbaum introduced me to the exquisite desserts at Cedric Grolet. That “pear” is actually a thin candy shell filled with a caramel ganache and bits of poached pear. Out of this world!

Schiaparelli at the V&A: Surrealism, Sequins, and Audible Gasps

And I arranged a meet up to with Annie to see the Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art exhibition at the V&A Museum.

I’ve SO been looking forward to seeing this exhibition. The V&A Museum never disappoints! (If you’re planning to visit London between now and November 8, it’s worth trying to book a spot now.)

Elsa Schiaparelli: A Brief Introduction

Her work was influenced by Paul Poiret and the Surrealist and Dada art movements of the 1920’s and 30’s. She started off with knitwear and sportswear and eventually began designing unique — and sometimes shocking for the time — couture.

The exhibition included both Schiaparelli’s original designs and designs from Daniel Roseberry, the current Creative Director at Maison Schiaparelli. (The original house closed in 1954, and was re-opened in 2014. He came on board in 2019.)

The exhibition is arranged in a series of small rooms, each not visible until you turn a blind corner and are suddenly confronted with astonishing beauty. I’ve never been at an exhibition where you hear so many audible gasps as people first get a glimpse of what’s around the corners.

Inspired by the Surrealists, Schiaparelli’s pieces were known for their witty details, like the acrobat buttons on these circus-inspired pieces. And look at that embroidery!

And I love the carrot, cabbage and rhubarb buttons on this velvet waistcoat.

Lobster & parsley motif by Salvador Dali.

Daniel Roseberry and the Modern Maison

I think the Daniel Roseberry’s designs stay true to the spirit of Schiaparelli…

…witty details included. (Take a look at the reflection on the right, with a stiletto heel detail peeking out of the back of the dress.)

Should You Go? (Yes.)

This is just a small sampling of the pieces on display. If you love fashion or just appreciate amazing craftsmanship (the embroidery! the beading! the details!) you won’t want to miss this exhibition!

What I Wore for a Museum Afternoon

So far, my travel wardrobe has been perfect for the weather. See what I packed HERE.

London, you never disappoint. Whether it’s a surrealist lobster on a couture gown or a “pear” that turns out to be pure caramel magic — this city always has a surprise up its sleeve. Have you seen the Schiaparelli show? I’d love to hear what you thought! And if you have a favorite London haunt — the more off-the-beaten-path the better — share it in the comments. I’m already planning my next visit. 😊 Next stop: Paris!

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