Fashion and Textile Museum — Attraction in London

Your Outlaws: Fashion Renegades of 80s Londonniw at the fashion and textile museum is a gem of an exhibition, clearly illustrating how the aesthetics of the late 80s influenced what lately asserted itself as a non conformism to the rigid stereotypes of masculinity and femininity. Leigh Bowery, Troyan, Susanne Bartsch, Pam Hogg, Vivienne Westwood, Katharine Hamnett, together with TastyTim, Rachel Auburn, Philip Salon, Roy Brown and many others, shaped what became the alternative London scene, with clubs like Blitz, the Mud club, and shops that were groundbreaking like Sex, Sign of the times, Biba, plus Kensington market a precursor of what we had later on with Camden Market, a place were creativity and new sartorial rules and looks were created, giving inspiration to the late Alexander McQueen with his bum showing trousers directly referencing the alternative, bondage look that created the don’t mess with me McQueen woman! Those people made a difference, challenged the status quo, went against the Thatcher obscurantism of Clause 28 and the previous government act that made life for queer people impossible and illegal. In this case fashion was not an ornament, it was a political stance, and it was effective if you think about the political slogans on the Hamnett T-shirt that declared choose life or any other relevant message. This is all very well documented and shown with the garments that are on display and wrrr kindly borrowed from some celebrities and from the archives of Browns, a shop that is now established, but that was groundbreaking when it was created, and have voice to an incredible array of talented people. A really good exhibition that goes far beyond the fashion and textile museum boundaries, showing us that clothes and fashion can, and should, ask questions to the establishment. Plus challenging the status quo is necessary in the current political climate, and the power of clothes, fashion, creativity, and the arts in general, should never be underestimated in order to raise the consciousness of the people. Go...

Wonderful place for people interested in the business of creative craft making. The variety in the exhibitions they put on here is excellent and well worth the short walk from London Bridge.

I was a regular here but have let things slip in recent years and hadn't visited for several years. I went back a few days ago and things haven't changed...it's still the same and I am overjoyed at it!

What I like is how close you can get to the exhibits and I really get to study the pieces in detail. The gallery is in a small space, but that works in its favour as you don't get bombarded with things to see (unlike in the British museum!).

They also put on fine special events and workshops, I have been to a few and they are excellent. They have special guests from the Royal school of needlework and Savile Row putting on classes and masterclasses as well as many other talented craft workers. There is an excellent shop selling printed matter and craft items and a nice cafe.

I love the FTM because I really believe they want people to enjoy the displays and come away with some more knowledge & inspiration. I don't feel like they want to take your money and I think it is wonderful.

I will be back very soon, will keep checking the website for new exhibitions, events and classes and promise not to leave such a large gap inbetween my visits again!

Do yourself a favour...

The Fashion and Textile Museum is a great place for anyone interested in the history of fashion and design. Here you can see the evolution of styles, learn about the influence of textiles on culture and society, and get to know the works of outstanding designers. The museum's exhibitions are always carefully thought out and presented in an interesting way. There are often temporary exhibitions dedicated to specific themes or designers, making each visit unique. The textile collection deserves special attention. Here you can see rare samples of fabrics, learn about various weaving and embroidery techniques, and appreciate the craftsmanship of artisans of past centuries. The museum offers educational programmes for children and adults, as well as master classes where you can learn to create your own textile products. This is a great opportunity not only to learn new things, but also to try yourself as a designer. Overall, the Fashion and Textile Museum is a place worth visiting for anyone who loves fashion, design and history. Here you can get a lot of new knowledge and inspiration, as well as spend a pleasant time surrounded by beautiful and...