The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1958-66 will open at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery on 10 May 2025, offering a vibrant look into one of the most stylish and culturally transformative eras in British history.
Running until 4 January 2026, this exciting new exhibition, sponsored by Ben Sherman, the iconic Brighton Mod brand, promises to captivate fashion lovers and history enthusiasts alike with a unique exploration of Mod culture and style.
Curated by renowned fashion expert Roger K. Burton, The In Crowd will feature over 35 dressed mannequins, showcasing rare and early Mod outfits from the esteemed collection of Burton himself. The exhibition will provide an up-close view of these one-of-a-kind garments, each piece a testament to the boldness and rebellious spirit that defined the Mod movement.
These historic fashion pieces will immerse visitors in the transformative style of the late 1950s and early 1960s, where the Mod subculture rose to challenge the status quo of post-war Britain.
The Mod Movement: A Revolution in Style and Attitude
Emerging in the late 1950s, the Mod movement represented a generation that rejected the conformity of the previous decade. The Mods embraced sharp tailoring, bold colors, and a modern outlook that encapsulated youth culture and freedom. Their style wasn’t merely about fashion; it was an attitude, a celebration of modernity, individuality, and rebellion.
Roger K. Burton, who has over 50 years of experience in the fashion industry, including styling iconic films like Quadrophenia and Absolute Beginners, said: “The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1958-66 isn’t just about the clothes; it’s about capturing the restless spirit of a generation.
“The Mods rejected the 1950s aesthetic, favoring sharp, stylish, and futuristic clothing that expressed a youthful hunger for freedom, expression, and identity.”
Burton, who has worked with legendary artists like David Bowie, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones, has crafted an exhibition that takes visitors on a journey into the heart of a cultural revolution. The In Crowd celebrates the designers who shaped the Mod movement, showcasing sleek miniskirts, sharply tailored suits, and crisp button-down shirts that became synonymous with the era’s sense of modernity and youthful rebellion.
Celebrating Brighton’s Historic Connection to the Mod Movement
For many, Brighton holds a special place in Mod history, thanks to its role as the setting for the iconic 1964 film Quadrophenia. The exhibition at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery offers an ideal venue to explore the ongoing legacy of Mod fashion, as it delves into the city’s significant connection to the movement.
Hedley Swain, CEO of Brighton & Hove Museums, said: “We are excited to present this exceptional exhibition in collaboration with Roger Burton.
“Not only does it showcase the remarkable craftsmanship and innovation of Mod fashion, but it also celebrates Brighton’s pivotal role in this youth revolution. The museum provides a perfect setting for exploring the cultural and stylistic legacy that continues to resonate across generations.”
A Multi-Sensory Experience
Visitors to The In Crowd can expect more than just a display of fashion. Hedley Swain promises that the exhibition will transport audiences back to the Mod era, immersing them in the look, feel, and sound of the time. Through contemporary clothing, accessories, and iconic photography, the exhibition will provide a comprehensive view of the Mod movement’s impact on the fashion world and beyond.
“The exhibition will highlight the sharp, cool fashion that fuelled this cultural revolution, from its relationship with music and club culture to its lasting influence on global fashion trends,” Swain added. “It’s not just an exhibition of clothes; it’s an exploration of a cultural moment that shaped the future of fashion and youth culture.”
A Must-See Exhibition for Fashion and Culture Enthusiasts
The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1958-66 offers a rare opportunity to experience the revolution in fashion that continues to inspire designers and culture today. With a focus on the craftsmanship, individuality, and creative spirit that defined Mod fashion, the exhibition promises to be an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in fashion history, British culture, and the timeless allure of the Mod look.
This highly anticipated exhibition is sure to become a highlight of Brighton’s cultural calendar, drawing visitors from across the UK and beyond. Whether you’re a fashion aficionado or a fan of British youth culture, The In Crowd offers a unique and immersive journey through one of the most iconic movements in fashion history.
Address: Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, Royal Pavilion Gardens, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1EE
Dates: 10 May 2025 – 4 January 2026
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm
Website: https://brightonmuseums.org.uk/event/the-in-crowd-mod-fashion-and-style-1958-1966/
