Saved events

Dirty Looks

— ,Art Gallery
Robert Wun's yellow rose, with exaggerated proportions and singed details

Robert Wun, Yellow Rose, Haute Couture Autumn/Winter 2024, Time. Photograph by Ellen Sampson.

Rebel against conventional beauty and take a look at the dirty 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. 

Tagged with: Art & design Autumn 2025
Lead Supporter
Tia Collection

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.