‘Outlaws: Fashion Renegades of ’80s London’ is a new exhibition at the Fashion and Textile Museum, showcasing the work of over 30 designers from the 1980s, highlighting the influential nightclub Taboo and its fashion revolutionary Leigh Bowery. Open from October 4, 2024, to March 9, 2025, the exhibition features custom garments and photography that connect underground style to mainstream culture.
In the vibrant London of the 1980s, marked by big shoulder pads and radical expression, the Fashion and Textile Museum launches ‘Outlaws: Fashion Renegades of ’80s London’. This exhibition, featuring over 30 designers, pays homage to the influential nightclub Taboo and the avant-garde fashion scene led by icon Leigh Bowery. Bowery, an Australian who found fame in London after arriving in 1980, is highlighted alongside custom pieces and photographs that trace the journey of underground style into mainstream culture. His legacy resonates in remarks from Boy George, who recalls, “It felt like you had this naïve idea that you could change things just by wearing something.” Though Taboo operated briefly, its impact on fashion and community was profound, providing an inclusive space for influential designers and artists. Visitors can view this exhibit from October 4, 2024, to March 9, 2025.
The 1980s in London were a period of intense creative freedom, spurred by the socio-economic climate under Thatcherism. The era’s cultural scene welcomed artists and designers from around the world, creating a melting pot of innovation. Notably, the nightclub Taboo emerged as a significant hub for this vibrant community, cultivating a space that encouraged bold fashion choices and artistic expression.
The ‘Outlaws: Fashion Renegades of ’80s London’ exhibition not only celebrates the bold aesthetics of the era but also the significant cultural movements that emerged from places like Taboo. It serves as a reminder of how fashion can act as a powerful form of expression and community building.
Original Source: www.timeout.com