REBEL: 30 YEARS OF LONDON FASHION
September 16, 2023, to February 11, 2024
An extraordinary exhibition, generously sponsored by Alexander McQueen, is set to make its debut, perfectly timed to align with the electrifying London Fashion Week. This monumental showcase promises to stand as a definitive survey of contemporary fashion culture on British soil, encompassing a breadth and depth never before witnessed in the United Kingdom.
Prepare to embark on an unparalleled journey that will provide an insightful glimpse into the art of forging careers in the fashion industry. From the catwalk to the atelier, this exhibition will unravel the intricate web of opportunities that London's vibrant fashion scene unfurls before young, budding creatives. It will serve as an illuminating beacon for those who dream of leaving their mark on the world of style, offering a comprehensive understanding of the pathways available in the dynamic realm of fashion.
This extraordinary exhibition marks a significant collaboration between the British Fashion Council (BFC), celebrating the remarkable 30-year journey of the BFC's NEWGEN program. NEWGEN has been a driving force behind emerging fashion design talent, with a mission to nurture future high-end global brands.
Curated by the esteemed BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent, Sarah Mower MBE, and co-curated by Rebecca Lewin, Senior Curator at the Design Museum, this exhibition unfolds the inspiring narrative of countless audacious young designers who have reshaped the fashion industry. It promises to showcase a vibrant ensemble of garments that embody exuberance, rebellion, and radicalism.
Within this captivating display, you'll encounter almost 100 groundbreaking fashion ensembles from the inaugural and early collections of these visionary designers, many of which have etched themselves into the annals of pop culture, while propelling their creators to international stardom.
Highlights include the iconic swan dress, famously donned by Björk at the 2001 Oscars, Harry Styles' mesmerizing Steven Stokey Daley attire featured in his 'Golden' music video, and Sam Smith's unforgettable inflatable latex suit by HARRI, worn at this year's BRIT Awards. The exhibition also pays homage to the contributions of illustrious designers like JW Anderson, Wales Bonner, Erdem, Molly Goddard, Christopher Kane, Simone Rocha, Russell Sage, and a host of others.
In addition to these remarkable fashion pieces, the exhibition will present a treasure trove of films, drawings, memorabilia, and previously unseen archival materials, offering an intimate glimpse into the creative journeys of some of the UK's most renowned contemporary designers.