The original Grace Kelly Hermes bag – worn by the actress for a 1956 photograph in Life magazine - is just one of the iconic objects from her spectacular wardrobe to go on display at the V&A from 17 April. The exhibition, Grace Kelly: Style Icon, will feature an array of hats, jewellery and dresses, including couture gowns by Dior, Balenciaga, Givenchy and Yves St Laurent, worn by Kelly during her career as an actress and as Princess Grace of Monaco.

Among the exhibits from her acting career is the Oscar statuette won by Kelly for her role in the 1954 film The Country Girl, as well as dresses from the films High Society and Rear Window, including a black chiffon gown designed by Edith Head, Paramount's chief costume designer.