April 17, 2018 |
Selfridges are exploring the Anatomy of Luxury. Haven’t you heard? Inside and out, from the organs to the gristly bits, the moving parts of London’s creative forces have been summoned W1-wards to be dissected and laid bare. Getting things underway is Gareth Pugh, whose voluminous and moody creations hold an autobiographical value for the designer. During his week long takeover of the space, Gareth is looking back, celebrating the energy and creativity of the city where he made his name and the one he currently calls home. “Rather than a commercial opportunity, I want this to be an all out celebration of the creative spirit of London” said Gareth of the takeover. “London as a place where anything can happen.”
“I’M A DREAMER” presents a week long hybrid installation of film and archive displays, a retrospective look into his own work and all that iconic stage wear he has produced for the world’s biggest performers; Queen B, Lady Gaga, Ri-Ri et al. We assume they’ve been through the dry-cleaner but that won’t stop us from sneaking a quick touch. Elsewhere, Mr. Pugh is utilising Selfridges’ rather large Oxford Street display to invite London’s emerging creative talent to quite literally put themselves in the shop window. With the help of Nick Knight’s SHOWstudio, a series of daily ‘creative interventions’ from the likes of designers Edwin Mohney, Richard Malone, Sinead O’Dwyer and stylist Ibrahim Kamara will take place for passers by to stop and gawp at. NB* Please don’t block the pavement and get in our way. The residency will culminate on Saturday 21st with the brilliant idea of holding a backstage recreation of one of Gareth’s shows. In collaboration with MAC Cosmetics and legendary nail artist Marian Newman, friends and customers have the chance for a full throttle, Gareth-style makeover. If it’s those smudged panda eyes from AW18 then count us in.
