Designing 007: Fifty years of Bond Style

This year makes the 50th anniversary of 007 on the silver screen. This weekend the Barbican Centre in London opens its exhibition on James Bond's flair-girls, guns, gadgest, megalomaniacs and hide-outs. Curators are Fashion historian Bronwyn Cosgrave and costume designer Lindy Hemming (costume designer on 5 Bond films.

From 1962's Dr No to this year's Skyfall, this is a unique exhibition showcasing the inside story of the design and style of the world's most influential and iconic movie brand. 

Highlights include gadgets and weapons made for Bond and his notorious adversaries by special effects experts John Stears and Chris Corbould, along with artwork for sets and storyboards by production designers Sir Ken Adam, Peter Lamont and Syd Cain, and costume designs by Bumble Dawson, Donfeld, Julie Harris, Lindy Hemming, Ronald Patterson, Emma Porteous, and Jany Temime.

On display too are lavish screen finery by Hollywood costume designers and major fashion names including Giorgio Armani, Brioni, Roberto Cavalli, Tom Ford, Hubert de Givenchy, Gucci's Frida Giannini, Douglas Hayward, Rifat Ozbek, Jenny Packham, Miuccia Prada, Oscar de la Renta, Anthony Sinclair, Philip Treacy, Emanuel Ungaro and Donatella Versace. 

And so much more..... 

Check out this great article in the WSJ about the exhibit with specifics by Mrs Cosgrave and Ms Hemming. Includes info on the First Bond Tux, the watch, the Aston Marton...