Dirty Looks
Robert Wun, Yellow Rose, Haute Couture Autumn/Winter 2024, Time. Photograph by Ellen Sampson.
Rebel against conventional beauty and take a look at the filthy side of fashion in a bold new exhibition that questions what is beautiful, and what the future of fashion can be.
From ruined romantic gowns to stained jeans, pre-scuffed shoes and up-cycled outfits the fashion world has never been filthier. New, luxurious objects are now being sold with a splash of mud rather than a lining of gold.
But where did this idea of getting dirty come from? And, where is it going?
Dirty Looks takes you beyond the clothes to explore fashion as art, and how dirt and distress have been used to defy beauty standards for over fifty years. As an alternative to conventional beauty, this trend can point us to a new way of thinking for a more sustainable fashion future.
Featuring icons like Hussein Chalayan, Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, and Maison Margiela, alongside emerging designers such as Elena Velez, Yuima Nakazato and IAMISIGO we can all imagine what the future of fashion can be for its makers, wearers and lovers.
The Barbican was designed to be different
Art Gallery
Location
The Art Gallery is located on Level 3 and can be accessed by stairs and lifts from Level G or via the Sculpture Court if coming from outside.
Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS
Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.
We’ve plenty of places for you to relax and replenish, from coffee and cake to wood-fired pizzas and full pre-theatre menus
Access
Doors normally in open position during exhibition hours. Ticket desk 98cm with a drop section of 76cm. Step-free access on each floor of the Art Gallery.
Mobility
The Art Gallery has two levels, linked by a flight of 24 stairs with an intermediate landing. A passengeroperated lift (76 x 110cm) connects the two floors. If you need assistance, staff will be happy to help.
Assistance dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome. If you prefer, you may leave your dog with a member of the gallery staff during your visit.
Large-print exhibition information
To request a large print copy, please call the Art Gallery on 020 7382 2382 before your visit.
For more access information, please visit our Accessibility section.
Enhanced security measures are currently in place at the Barbican.
As part of these measures only one reasonably-sized bag (no larger than 32cm L x 18cm W x 22cm H) per person may be taken inside our venues and all bags may be searched by a member of our team.
We ask that, where possible, visitors avoid bringing large bags to the Centre. If you do need to check bags into our free cloakrooms, we suggest arriving early. All bags deposited will be subject to search and random bag searches are also in operation.
Please also remember that belongings should not be left unattended at any time.
Thank you for your understanding – we look forward to welcoming you to the Barbican.
