radical fashion

A visually stunning and provocative exhibition, Radical Fashion proposes a discovery of the universe of radical fashion through the work of eleven designers of worldwide renown. From different generations, nationalities, and at various stages in their careers, they all have in common that they hold a prominent position on the international fashion stage without making the slightest concession. Each gives an extremely personal interpretation of the term “radical”.

Azzedine Alaïa, a designer known for refusing to compromise and who, in his youth, was trained to be a sculptor has always described himself as a 'builder' rather than a couturier. Some of his garments contain up to 40 pieces and are put together, or 'built', in order to obtain a perfect sculptural form.

The most important curators, fashion historians and critics explore the varied universes of Alexander McQueen, Azzedine Alaïa, Comme des Garçons, Helmut Lang, Hussein Chalayan, Issey Miyake, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Junya Watanabe Comme des Garçons, Martin Margiela, Vivienne Westwood and Yohji Yamamoto.

Claire Wilcox, Deputy Head Curator of the department of Textiles and Costume at the Victoria & Albert Museum, and Head of collections of contemporary and 20th century costume, is responsible for the initiative of this project.