Founded by designer Zandra Rhodes, the Fashion and Textile Museum is at 83 Bermondsey Street in London. Its colourful building is easy to spot, and its compact galleries make it a focused stop for fashion and design. Exhibitions change, with displays covering designers, clothing and textile patterns; past shows have included film costumes shown alongside images or clips. Check the current exhibition before you go, as there is no permanent collection. Workshops and a gift shop add to the visit.
A museum built around changing exhibitions
The Fashion and Textile Museum was founded by British designer Zandra Rhodes and is dedicated to contemporary fashion and textile design. It does not maintain a permanent collection. Instead, exhibitions focus on particular designers, periods, styles and materials, so the displays change over time. The museum may close between exhibitions while the galleries are prepared for a new show.
Past exhibitions have explored subjects including knitwear, Jazz Age fashion, T-shirts and Riviera style, as well as the work of designers such as Orla Kiely, Mary Quant and Terence Conran. Check the museum's website to see what is on during your visit.
What to look for in the galleries
The exhibitions bring garments and textile pieces together with information about the designers and their historical context. Displays can include carefully presented patterns and prints; an exhibition on Susan Collier and Sarah Campbell, for example, traced their work through a timeline of patterns. The museum has also shown costumes connected with films, paired with photographs, drawings or clips that link each outfit to its screen character.
The galleries are compact, so the visit is focused rather than a tour of a large collection. Workshops, talks and creative courses are also part of the museum's programme. Their availability depends on the programme, so check ahead if you want to take part. A gift shop is on site.
The building and its Bermondsey setting
The museum occupies a colourful converted warehouse at 83 Bermondsey Street. Architect Ricardo Legorreta designed the building, whose vivid exterior stands out among the street's shops and places to eat. The address is a few blocks from London Bridge station, with dining and shopping nearby.
For another local detail, look for history notice boards in the park on Bermondsey Street. The museum has a restaurant on site, and its entrance and restroom are wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Does the Fashion and Textile Museum have a permanent collection?
No. The museum presents changing exhibitions rather than maintaining a permanent collection. Check its website for the current show.
How long does a visit take?
About an hour is enough to see the compact galleries.
Can I book tickets in advance?
Yes. The museum recommends getting tickets in advance.
Where is the Fashion and Textile Museum?
It is at 83 Bermondsey Street, London, SE1 3XF, a few blocks from London Bridge station.
