The Vulgar: Fashion Redefined

Vibrant but slightly confused exhibition at the Barbican looking at the concept of the vulgar in fashion.

I say confused as I’m not sure it ever got to a good definition of what Vulgar is. The main conclusion seemed to be that vulgar meant lower class often with the implication of people trying to act and dress outside their class. This seemed quite patronising and didn’t sit well with the designer clothes which made up the majority of the show. I did like the fact that show was curated by both a fashion curator and a psychoanalyst however that may have been what added to the confusion. It did give you good ideas to go away and think about.

However the show was visually stunning! I liked the fact the show included a lot of historical ideas and them also looked at how those ideas are used by modern designers. There was a lovely display in the middle which could be viewed from both levels of 18th century clothing and modern designer versions. There were some great outfits and I feel for a Vivienne Westwood bag designed like a bustle for Louis Vuitton and a pale purple evening dress designed for Lady Clarke with the cross keys of St Peter in pearls.

At times the show also seemed to be looking at the history of fashion exhibitions in museums, which in itself would be an interesting topic, but got a bit lost here. There were also sections which didn’t actually seem to be vulgar! I think they may have been there to point out the difference or does is say something about my taste! I’d mention the section on classism and Greek style in clothing and a wonderful display of white collars on black stands in a dark room. The latter being one of the most beautiful displays I’ve seen this year.

Closes on 5 February 2017

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