The whole story of Biba has always been something that has interested me. The almost legendary department store took centre place in London’s fashion scene in the heart of the swinging sixties. The place revolutionised fashion retail as we know it- selling young, individual styles and entirely coordinated outfits for the very first time. Supermodels, rock stars, cockney girls and socialites brushed shoulders in the black and gold art deco rooms filled with merchandise ranging from beaded Moroccan style gowns to coffee and dustpans. And the woman behind all this? Barbara Hulanicki.
Tonight I was lucky enough to meet this talented woman at the Cameo cinema. A new independent film about her, Beyond Biba, had a one-off screening complete with the lady herself and a questions and answers session. I was mesmerised! Unfortunately I didnt manage to nab a photo of her personally (I even took my camera incase the opportunity arose) but thats her up there in all her glory.
Check out Beyond Biba at www.beyondbibamovie.com, you wont be disappointed!
