Collected Wisdom: Victoria Beckham Collects to Bring Inspiration to Her Life and Fashion

Collected Wisdom: Victoria Beckham Collects to Bring Inspiration to Her Life and Fashion

The British fashion designer answers our questions about what and how to collect, ahead of curating highlights from the upcoming New York and London contemporary art sales.
The British fashion designer answers our questions about what and how to collect, ahead of curating highlights from the upcoming New York and London contemporary art sales.

Describe your collection in three words?

Personal, focused and inspiring.

What was your very first collection, maybe as a child or teenager?

When I was a young girl, my mother’s friend would give me her empty Chanel No. 5 fragrance bottles. Despite them being completely empty, I just loved how they looked. I would line up my collection in my room.

What was your first serious piece of art?

One of the very first pieces that David and I bought was a Julian Schnabel from his 2005 “Sonanbul” series.

For you, are art and fashion connected?

Absolutely. I continue to be inspired by art, whether it’s a contemporary piece or more classical work, such as an Old Master. In 2014, when I opened my flagship store on Dover Street in London, it was important for me to create a space that combined art and fashion. The store is a full immersion into our world, and every part of this should feel considered and inspiring to clients. This concept was at the forefront of our recent partnership with Rose Uniacke, an esteemed interior designer and my close friend. Watching Rose place every artwork and antique, from a unique desk by Gio Ponti to a Simone Prouvé weaving, meaningfully throughout the space in such a personal way was everything I ever dreamed of for my store.

Edgar Degas, “Dancers at the Barre,” circa 1876-77. Courtesy of the British Museum.

Favorite city for art or why?

I love London. When you look at the incredible galleries and museums we have in this city, such as The National Gallery and The National Portrait Gallery, they have such a rich history and prestige.

What non-art object do you find most beautiful?

David Beckham first, and then a beautiful wine. Wine sits apart from both our industries, but it is something that we are enjoying learning about together. I had the privilege to visit the vineyards of Romanée-Conti, and I was amazed by their beauty and the incredible work and dedication that goes into the process.

VICTORIA BECKHAM WITH George Condo, "Artist and Muse," 2015. PHOTO: James Kelly

What’s the one piece you’ll never part with?

I’d never like to part with any of our artworks; we love them so much! We have only ever bought pieces that bring us joy every time we look at them.

Which museum would you like to be locked in overnight?

Gosh, how to choose? What a treat that would be… I’ve always loved The Frick Collection in New York.

Favorite art or historical fact?

I love it when artworks themselves possess history. I’ve always been drawn to a particular work on paper by Degas, called “Dancers at the Barre,” which feels very different from his usual style. I don’t own it, but I find it so often on my fashion mood board because something really speaks to me about it. I also love Monet’s “Houses of Parliament” series. I have been lucky to see some of these paintings in a private home. Seeing these pieces up close was remarkable—their luminosity and vibrancy are exceptional.

Claude Monet, “Houses of Parliament, London,” 1900-01. Courtesy of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Best impulse buy?

I’m a very considered person, so it’s not in my nature to buy impulsively.

Favorite work of architecture and why?

Whilst I love contemporary art, I’m also drawn to classical architecture for its incredible beauty. My last few fashion shows in Paris have taken place in incredible hôtel particuliers, such as the Hôtel Pozzo di Borgo and the Hôtel Salomon de Rothschild. My most recent show for Spring/Summer 2025 was in the Château de Bagatelle, an 18th-century jewel-box chateau with so much heritage. Known for its lavish parties, its notoriety began when the Count of Artois acquired the estate in 1775 and wagered a bet with Marie-Antoinette that he could rebuild the château in two months. He used over 900 workers to complete the work in 64 days. I felt honored to show my collection in a highlight of Paris’s cultural heritage.

What’s the piece that got away?

It was a dark, black painting from Yayoi Kusama’s “Infinity Nets” series that David wanted to buy, but at the time I found it too heavy. We kick ourselves every time we discuss it.

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