Dive into fashion’s messy rebellion, when imperfection and decay paved the way for creative reinvention.
Clothes deliberately stained, torn or splattered with mud take centre stage in this major exhibition spotlighting fashion's dirty side. See pioneering work by iconic designers, from Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood to newer voices such as Elena Velez and IAMISIGO. Their work treats damage and decay as a creative strategy, subverting conventional ideas of beauty.
Against a backdrop of glossy digital perfection, these garments embrace rawness and imperfection, exploring fashion’s relationship with the body, society and the environment. Visitors are invited to reflect on how messiness can spark innovation, challenge expectations, and point towards more sustainable, expressive and imaginative futures for clothing.
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Visitor information
Address
Level 3, Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London, Greater London, EC2Y 8DS
020 7638 8891
Opening times
Art gallery & gallery shop:
Sat-Sun 10am-6pm.
Mon Closed.
Tue-Wed 10am-6pm.
Thu-Fri 10am-8pm*
Bank Holidays 12pm-6pm.
Last entry 30 minutes before closing.
The Curve:
Open daily 11am-7pm.
Bank Holidays 12pm-7pm.
Please see website for full opening times.
Exclusions and safety measures
Bank Holidays 12–6pm (Sat–Wed) 12–9pm (Thu & Fri) Closed 24-28 Dec and 1 Jan
