Biba comes to the Seaside

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There has been a regular costume and textile exhibition at The Beecroft since it moved to the imposing 60s building on Victoria Avenue. I have to say that I have been excited about the Biba exhibition for a while and Thursday night was the much anticipated private view. 

Entering the beecroft gallery I walked through the gift shop - already eyeing up the gorgeous Biba merchandise- I was greeted by a much appreciated glass of wine, then up to the first floor and the exhibition. Like a mini V&A gallery the space introduces Biba as a fashion store, much like the topshop of it's day, with a film running with footage of visionary Barbara Hulanicki, who was the force behind Biba. The clothes range from 40s style dresses in brown stripes to a gorgeous pink frock-coat, glittery wellingtons and a glamourous full- length ivory evening dress. 

   When I managed to drag myself away from the beautiful clothes I wandered over to Southend museum where you can view Biba as a lifestyle brand, there's Biba make-up, plates, food packaging... Biba baked beans anyone? there's even washing powder. It's hard to imagine the impact Biba had on the retail scene in the 60s and 70s, but this exhibition is a great place to start. Although as a brand it was quite short-lived, it set the precedent for how brands work today. Of course the Biba brand is still being used today, but to experience the true beginnings of Biba head to Southend. 

• Southend Central Museum is next door to the Beecroft Art Gallery in Victoria Avenue, Southend, SS2 6EX.
• Both buildings are open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am until 5pm.
• The exhibition is running from Saturday 28th May until Saturday 14th January next year.