1 June – 3 July 2011

Art and fashion collide in a glittering display of luxurious opulence.

Using the city as a source of inspiration, some of Brighton’s best known and dynamic fashion designers have worked in collaboration to produce nine new gowns that demonstrate the skill, opulence and art of the Couturier. The gowns will be staged in the costume gallery at Brighton Museum against a beautiful mirrored backdrop to create an installation of breathtaking beauty and exquisite detail.

The designers selected have all been chosen because of their strong individual style and the attention to detail in their work. Working to a brief that has asked them to create a one-off piece based on a Brighton landmark or historical reference, the works produced will use a limited colour palette with a personal accent colour and will clearly demonstrate the techniques, skills and house-style associated with each designer.

The gowns featured will demonstrate the use of bias cutting, printing, bead work, ribbon work, sculptural knit, corsetry, leatherwork and feathers to produce a spectacular and original exhibit using the finest materials.

Masterclasses
The installation will be accompanied throughout June by a series of talks, lectures and demonstrations including Pattern Cutting and Illustration Masterclasses by Kevin Freeman of Renaissance, styling workshops by Gay Richardson and reworking vintage by Natalie Wileman of Former Glory. All will be announced shortly on the Museum website. www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk/Museums/brightonmuseum

Featured Designers
Ailsa, Joanne Fleming Design, Juliana Sissons, Mazelino, Chrissie Nicholson-Wilde, Paul Milana, Sarina Poppy, Renaissance and Suzie Turner.