From the glittering halls of the V&A in London to the grand salons of the Louvre in Paris, this summer’s fashion exhibitions span continents and centuries, offering fresh perspectives on style, identity and craftsmanship. Whether it's Cartier’s royal jewels, the subversive elegance of Black tailoring, or Alexander McQueen’s otherworldly designs shown alongside historic artefacts, these shows go beyond fashion to tell stories of power, culture and transformation. Here are five must-see exhibitions around the world making headlines in 2025.

Rome — From Hearts to Hands: Dolce&Gabbana, Palazzo Esposizioni Roma | 14 May to 13 August 2025

Following sell-out runs in Milan and Paris, this major show lands in Rome! An open love letter to Italian culture, the enduring inspiration behind Dolce&Gabbana since its inception, this project retraces the extraordinary creative journey of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, from the heart where ideas are born to the hands through which they take shape. Make time to stroll through the nearby Monti neighbourhood afterwards, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods and a treasure trove of vintage shops, cafés and cobbled charm.

London — Cartier, V&A South Kensington. 12 April to 16 November 2025

A glittering celebration of Cartier’s legacy, this major exhibition brings together over 350 dazzling pieces, from historic gemstones to iconic watches and clocks, tracing the house’s journey in design and craftsmanship since the early 1900s. Jewellery lovers are in for a treat with highlights including the Williamson Diamond brooch, made for Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and the Scroll Tiara, worn at her coronation and later by Rihanna on the cover of W magazine in 2016.

New York — Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. 10 May to 26 October 2025

This exhibition looks at how style has played a vital role in shaping Black identities across the Atlantic diaspora, especially in the United States and Europe. Featuring garments, accessories, paintings, photographs, and decorative objects from the 18th century to the present, it examines dandyism not only as a visual expression but also as a means of navigating and challenging social and political structures.

Paris — Art and Fashion: Statement Pieces, Louvre. 21 January to 21 July 2025

Art history meets haute couture in a spellbinding exhibition that weaves a fashion trail through the Musée du Louvre’s Department of Decorative Arts. Designs by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, along with pieces by Yohji Yamamoto and Dolce & Gabbana, are shown in dialogue with historic tapestries, ornate silverware, and even the suit of armour worn by Henry IV. A standout moment? The iconic Armadillo shoe from Alexander McQueen’s 2010 Plato’s Atlantis collection.

Antwerp — Fashion & Interiors. A Gendered Affair, MoMu. 29 March to 3 August 2025

MoMu’s compelling exhibition, curated by Romy Cockx, explores the intersection of fashion and interior design through the lens of gender. Featuring works by Martin Margiela, Le Corbusier and Hussein Chalayan, the show traces how clothing and domestic space have long been shaped by (and have shaped) gendered expectations. Infused with remarkable furniture and Objets d'art, this show is a must-see for design lovers too!