The Barbican's Dirty Looks exhibition examines how dirt and decay have been integrated into fashion to defy beauty standards.

From stained jeans to pre-scuffed shoes, the exhibition spotlights pieces from fashion designers like Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Maison Margiela, alongside emerging designers such as Elena Velez, Yuima Nakazato and IAMISIGO.

Dirty Looks features archival clothing and newly-commissioned pieces following the exhibition theme, as well as a theme installation.

The Barbican Art Gallery was transformed by Dutch design office Studio Dennis Vanderbroeck for the exhibition.

Photo of Paolo Carzana's Autumn/Winter 2025 collection, Dragons Unwinged at the Butchers Block. Photo is by Joseph Rigby, courtesy of Paolo Carzana.

Dirty Looks takes place from 25 September 2025 to 25 January 2026 at the Barbican Centre Art Gallery, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS, UK.