City-by-the-sea celebrates global fashion phenomenon, Barbara Hulanicki
This September, Brighton is bringing the iconic Biba label back to its seaside roots in an exhibition to celebrate the vibrant life and designs of its fashionista founder, Barbara Hulanicki.
The Biba and Beyond exhibition, featuring illustrations, film, photography and memories of those who shared Hulanicki's experiences, will be held at the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery from 22 September 2012 - 14 April 2013.
With its cutting edge yet affordable fashion, the Biba store and label transformed the high street shopping experience in the 1960s and 70s. Young working women shopped alongside models and celebrities, including Twiggy, Cher and the Rolling Stones.
A past student of the Brighton College of Art, Hulanicki wowed the world with her unique take on fashion and design and became an icon of her time. Her creations incorporated Art deco, Victorian and Hollywood glamour in a series of striking, romantic and sensual designs.
The colourful and creative scene that inspired a global fashion phenomenon continues to motivate local designers and artists in Brighton today. Home to over 300 unique shops in less than half a square mile, the Brighton Lanes and North Laine area boasts the largest selection of independent retailers on the South Coast. Visitors to the North Laine can find everything from high-end designs to 50's kitsch furniture and locally made sculpture and ceramics.
Fashion emporiums include Get Cutie with its impressive array of UK-made, quirky print dresses and accessories; DollyDagger, stockist of vintage inspired clothing with a twist and Brighton's bespoke tailor; Gresham Blake, which offers a relaxed alternative to Savile Row with its innovative contemporary made to measure suits for men and women.
If Biba and Beyond has left you hungry for more fashion history, then head across the gallery to the Fashion and the Flag exhibit. Running from 3 May to - 25 November, the exhibit honours designers who have been inspired by the Union Jack. Major designers include Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood. Entry is free.
Tickets for the Biba and Beyond exhibition are on sale from June 2012.
For more information visit http://www.visitbrighton.com/
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