Ben Sherman and the In Crowd: Mod fashion hits Brighton Museum.
Ben Sherman the man was born in Brighton on October 3rd 1925, and it seems appropriate in what would have been his 100th year for Brighton Museum & Art Gallery to collaborate with Ben Sherman the brand on two new exhibitions; The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1958-66 and Ben Sherman: The Decades.
As well as being the Ben Sherman's birth place Brighton is the city where he first set up shop, when he rented a factory in Bedford Square, initially manufacturing shirts for other people. The first Ben Sherman shirt was launched in 1963 and the brands slim-fitting style and contemporary use of colour quickly found favour with the emerging Mod scene. The Mod movement which perfectly combined fashion and music became central to the brands success and to its continuing ethos. Last year Ben Sherman returned home by opening a new flagship store in Dukes Lane and, as previously mentioned, this year they make it to the Royal Pavilion Gardens.
As well as being honoured with their own exhibition Ben Sherman are the headline sponsors of The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1958-66, reaffirming the brands connection to Mod culture and fashion. The exhibition, curated by Robert K. Burton in collaboration with Martin Pel, explores the influences on the Mod look, its impact on youth culture and the enduring appeal of Mod style. Utilising full outfits, clothing and accessories, the exhibition also expands the experience with contemporary photography and film to offer up a complete picture of both the origins and enduring appeal of the Mods.
The main Mod exhibition is complemented by a specific exploration of Brighton's very own Mod manufacturer. Key historical pieces from Ben Sherman: The Decades include the brand's iconic shirts and Harrington jackets, as well as classic pieces that have been worn by and influenced iconic performers, cultural icons, and fashion moments over the years. Twelve dressed mannequins and images of well-known musicians and cultural icons are on show, which celebrate the brands heritage and enduring influence over fashion and youth culture.
Ben Sherman are naturally still producing the goods to the current day, with their shirts still offering that same perfect combination of quality, cut and colour. Their latest range is the perfect way to celebrate Ben's 100th Birthday if you don't have the opportunity to get to Brighton.
Ben Sherman Signature Short Sleeve Oxford Shirt and Irregular Check Short Sleeve Shirt.
Check out the full range from Ben Sherman available at Atom Retro right here.
If you're planning a trip to Brighton and are interested in either exhibition further details are available from the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery website right here (external link).