SAILOR CHIC

This summer the National Maritime Museum Greenwich will explore our fascination for all fashions nautical in a new exhibition, Sailor Chic. Featuring archive pieces from leading designers including Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, John Galliano and Yves Saint Laurent as well as items from the museum's own collection, the exhibition will chart the history of the trend and the enduring influence of naval-inspired styles on fashion over the last 150 years. "Nautical styles have played an important part in British identity, with sailor-dress being adopted at different times to suggest bravery, allegiance, independence or rebellion," says Amy Miller, curator of decorative dress and material culture. "The Sailor Chic exhibition reminds us of Britain's maritime heritage."From the sailor suit Queen Victoria had made for her son to wear on board the Royal Yacht in 1846 to Vivienne Westwood's iconic Pirate collection in 1981, the nautical trend now has a prevalent place on the high street too - not a season goes by when brass buttons and jaunty stripes (or even bell-bottoms) don't get a fashionable mention. But why do we love it so much? There's only one way to find out! Sailor Chic – Fashion's Love Affair With The Sea runs from July 25 until December 2 2007. Tickets cost £5 for adults, £4 for concessions and under-16s go free. For further information visit www.nmm.ac.uk