14/04/2026
This week, the much-lauded Schiaparelli exhibition at the , offering an extraordinary glimpse into the world of one of fashion’s most visionary couturiers, Elsa Schiaparelli. The design on show bring to life her bold creativity, surrealist influence, and exquisite craftsmanship which continues to be masterfully channelled by the brand’s current Creative Director .
Many pieces in the exhibition were loaned by private collectors. For many of GSC’s Private Client Advisory clients who make alternative investments that reflect their passions and personal interests, the collections they build can also feed into a wider vision and narrative surrounding their legacy. Carefully crafted and preserved collections that can be shared with wider audiences, offer huge cultural value and speak to the collector’s role as a custodian of some of the world’s most important cultural artefacts.
Data also shows that luxury fashion continues to show growth as an alternative asset class. According to the Luxury Investment Index, handbags were one of the best-performing luxury collectible last year, with growth of 2.8%. It also represents serious business for collectors and the auction world. The record-breaking Masterpieces: The Mouna Ayoub Haute Couture Collection raised over €6.19 million. The sale, featuring a wardrobe spanning three decades of designs, was presented by and and attracted serious collectors and cultural institution from around the world.
Alongside rarity, it is often the story and meaning behind each piece that further drives value. A highlight of the Schiaparelli exhibition is Wallis Simpson’s iconic lobster dress, worn as part of her bridal trousseau in 1937 ahead of her wedding to the Duke of Windsor. Designed in collaboration with Dalí, it was a provocative choice for Wallis as she embraced the spotlight that was shone on her.
We watch with interest which pieces the savvy fashion collectors are acquiring today that may one day become pieces of fashion, and investment, history.