The Biba Story explores how fashion phenomenon Biba blossomed to become the world’s first lifestyle label, sparking a revolution in how people shopped and how Biba earned its spot as the brand that epitomises 1960s and 1970s fashion.
The exhibition explores the history of Biba, from the first simple shift dresses, to the glamorous devoré wraps, sequinned bodices, leopard print coats, trouser suits, floppy hats and feather boas that came to epitomise the Biba look. Under its legendary founder Barbara Hulanicki, it was a phenomenon that has never been replicated. Lasting just over 10 years, it remains influential to this day and interest in this cult fashion and lifestyle label has never waned.
Drawn from Hulanicki’s private archives including her press books, correspondence, and marketing material, The Biba Story visually charts the rise of Biba with over a hundred items including extremely rare articles of clothing loaned by private collectors. The exhibition also showcases a selection of the iconic lifestyle products that were on sale at Big Biba from make-up to home furnishings, and the six Biba catalogues that were the genius concept of Hulanicki.
“It isn’t just selling dresses, it’s a whole way of life” – Barbara Hulanicki, 1970.