Freddie Mercury’s iconic looks to go on display at a free exhibition in London
The exhibition marks what would have been the musician’s 80th birthday
London’s Victoria and Albert Museum will open Freddie Mercury | Splendid Things, a free exhibition dedicated to the Queen frontman’s unmistakable stage style. The project marks what would have been the musician’s 80th birthday on 5 September 2026.
The exhibition will feature eight iconic Mercury looks spanning different stages of his career — from Queen’s earliest performances in the 1970s to the band’s final tour. Seven of them have been loaned to the museum by Mary Austin, the artist’s former fiancée and close friend, who also helped develop the exhibition.
Among the exhibits is the black-and-white ensemble Mercury wore at one of Queen’s earliest concerts at Imperial College. The musician is pictured in the same outfit on the cover of the band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1973.
Visitors will also see the Mercury Wing jumpsuit created by designer Wendy de Smet. Mercury wore it during the A Night at the Opera tour in 1975 and 1976 and appeared in it in the music video for Bohemian Rhapsody.
A special place in the exhibition will be reserved for the crown and cloak designed by Diana Moseley. Mercury wore the look during the Magic Tour, including Queen’s final concert at Knebworth in 1986. The exhibition will also feature a costume from the Made in Heaven music video, as well as accessories and garments from the artist’s personal wardrobe.
The exhibition route will comprise six thematic sections, each exploring a distinct period in Mercury’s creative career. Through sets, lighting and sound, stage designer Tom Piper will recreate the atmosphere of his performances and demonstrate how fashion helped the artist shape his instantly recognisable stage persona.
The exhibition’s title refers to a comment Mercury made in 1978 about his love of beautiful things. According to Mary Austin, costumes were never simply clothes to the musician — they were an essential part of his artistic vision, performances and self-expression.
Freddie Mercury | Splendid Things will be on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum from 24 October 2026 to 17 January 2027. Admission will be free.
Photo: Instagram @freddiemercuryclub, @freddiemercury
