Group Write
up
Discover the creative explosion of London fashion during the
1980’s in a major exhibition at the V&A. Explore a range of sub cultures
throughout the exhibition, in combination with 80’s music, florescent lighting
and a club atmosphere.
Glam Fetish
Vivienne Westwood’s shop SEX introduced fetish and bondage
wear to the club and music scene. The look was enriched with Glam Rock elements
such as gold leather and flashy jewellery.
Knit Wear
This style varied from vintage-styled hand knits to machine
knits that offered a sleek body hugging look while deconstructed, punk
influenced jumpers were a familiar part of the alternative scene.
Hard Times
This phase is the complete opposite to the New Romantic
phase that was due to come. Ripped t-shirts and leather jackets emphasised
masculinity and being tough.
New Romantic
The look was androgynous, dripping with diamante and laden
down with eyeliner, and that was men. Eyeliner, frilly shirts and clothing that
is aimed at the opposite sex represented the New Romantic era.
Rave
A number of DJ’s to recreate the sound and atmosphere of
ecstasy-fuelled Ibiza dance clubs. The shapes of the early 1980’s disappeared
and tight fitting wear evolved which featured Day-Glo colours and metallic
tones.
Goth
The gothic era featured black leather, black make up, with
Dr. Marten boots and studded accessories. The Goth look emerged from a
combination of punk, fetish and the 80’s obsession of with dressing.
Political
Over sized T-shirts with political messages in large, bold
text, were a way of protesting through fashion.
Body Map
Body map took leisure to the 1980’s and using jersey velor
and lycra, mauled them to design shapes and the addition of striking bold
graphic patterns, prints and a splash colour. Body map produced a blend of form
fitting knits, layered sketch, and jersey rhythmic print.
Tradition &
Subversion
Traditional British textiles such as wool suiting’s, tweeds
and shirting provided a palette of colours and materials, which also appealed to
womens wear designers.
John Galliano recalled, “Thursday and Friday at St Martin’s,
the college was almost deserted. Everyone was at home working on their costumes
for the weekend.’
