McQueen at the Barbican – Exploring ‘Dirty Looks: Desire and Decay in Fashion’
- Miami Living Team
- 7 days ago
- 1 min read
If you happen to be in London before January 25, 2026, make time to visit the Barbican Centre’s bold exhibition Dirty Looks: Desire and Decay in Fashion. This provocative showcase challenges contemporary ideals of beauty and perfection, exploring how fashion embraces dirt, decay, and defiance to question what we find alluring.
At the heart of the exhibition is Lee Alexander McQueen, the visionary British designer celebrated for his raw exploration of nature, transformation, and emotional intensity. Curated by Karen Van Godtsenhoven, the show features three iconic McQueen archive pieces that perfectly capture its central themes:
Autumn/Winter 1995 “Highland Rape” Dress – a haunting reflection on vulnerability and power.
Autumn/Winter 2000 “Eshu” Dress – inspired by African mythology, blending chaos with creativity.
Spring/Summer 2003 “Irere” Dress – symbolising transformation through destruction and rebirth.
Visitors can also get a glimpse into the careful conservation and installation of these historic garments, revealing the craftsmanship behind McQueen’s enduring legacy.
Exhibition Details:
Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS
Open until 25 January 2026