'Freddie Mercury. Splendid Things' installation at The V&A South Kensington

BGUK_3722878 - Eight looks worn by the iconic performer and songwriter Freddie Mercury on display at V&A South Kensington. Freddie Mercury | Splendid Things marks the 80th anniversary year of Freddie’s birth, paying tribute to one of the world’s most beloved performers. The trail, developed with Mary Austin, Freddie’s former fiancée, close friend and confidante of 20 years, celebrates Mercury’s career through costumes and accessories worn in some of the most memorable music videos and pop performances of modern times. Mary has loaned seven of the looks to the V&A for the display. Each of the 6 stops on the trial showcase an iconic moment in Mercury’s career with a unique and dramatic setting in the V&A galleries and will draw synergies with the V&A objects on display, as well as the architecture of the building. Mannequins made specially for the trail are dynamically posed to reflect Freddie’s charismatic stage presence. Looks that feature on the trail include: The Flash ensemble + half mic, 1980 – T-shirt hand-drawn by Freddie Mercury. This is also accompanied by a half-mic that had become synonymous with Mercury on stage. The cloak and crown ensemble worn on the Magic Tour, 1986 - This cloak and crown ensemble was worn by Freddie for show climaxes on the Magic Tour. Freddie had commissioned the pieces from designer Diana Moseley, expressly looking for a costume that would finish off the shows in grandiose fashion. A jacket from the early 1970s and kimono, 1950–70, both from Freddie’s private wardrobe - The jacket was worn by Freddie for early Queen rehearsals and press shots. This kimono was part of his private wardrobe. An ensemble worn at Imperial College gig, 1973 - Monochrome two piece worn by Freddie at an early Queen show at Imperial College. The Mercury Wing catsuit and bolero ensemble, 1975 – Designed by Wendy de Smet, she incorporated wing motifs at the cuffs and bolero of this piece. Freddie worked closely with the designer on this commission. Alongside the ‘Spine Suit’ or the ‘Black Queen’ suit, 1975 – another collaboration between Wendy de Smet and Freddie. T The ‘Made in Heaven’ music video costume, 1985 – This costume is inspired by Freddie’s love of dance, with references to The Rite of Spring and Dante’s inferno. Freddie handpicked Diana Moseley to design his costume.