Freddie Mercury in his crown and cloak designed by Diana Moseley, worn on the Magic Tour in 1986
Photograph by Denis O’Regan
Eight famous costumes worn by the legendary songwriter Freddie Mercury will go on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington this autumn, as part of a free trail celebrating the late Queen frontman (Splendid Things, 24 October-17 January 2027). The trail, developed with Mary Austin, Freddie’s former fiancée, takes its name from a remark Mercury made in 1978: “I like to be surrounded by splendid things. I want to lead a Victorian life surrounded by exquisite clutter.”
Dotted around the V&A galleries, fans can see the showman’s head-turning outfits close-up, including the ensemble featured on the cover of Queen’s debut album in 1973 and the Mercury Wing catsuit designed by Wendy de Smet for the Night At The Opera tour (1975- 1976). Accessories and items from Mercury’s personal wardrobe also offer a glimpse of the man behind the persona, says a V&A statement. “Reflecting his love of ‘splendid things’ and his passion for art, design and fashion, Freddie will be very at home in the V&A galleries,” adds Kate Bailey, the museum’s senior curator of theatre and performance. Indeed.
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