The Spring/Summer 2013 runway shows this year screamed out sixties. Among many things that spring to mind when thinking about the era are Biba, Mary Quant’s mini skirts and Vidal Sassoon’s bob. The influential British hairdresser who passed away in May is having his tribute made at Somerset house in a series of photographs, artwork and film.

Although small, the show champions Sassoon for his hair cuts that saw the end of women’s high maintenance hair routines and complimented the new progressive fashion. Inspired by Bauhaus, the hairdresser’s first bob for Grace Coddington made them both a household name. He created a style suitable for the working woman, in an age of equality and empowerment. Sassoon was interested in the geometry of the haircut, and later built an empire of salons and academies all over the world.

With Somerset House being the home of London Fashion Week and so many fashion and photography exhibitions, it is the perfect site to host such a show – celebrating one of our best home grown talents.

Vidal Sassoon: Outtakes is on display at Somerset House until 28 October