London College of Fashion is opening its doors to the public as part of the £1.1 billion transformation of Stratford’s Olympic park into the capital’s cultural hub.
The college, which counts designers Jimmy Choo and Patrick Cox amongst its alumni, will be the first major institution to open in what has been dubbed the East Bank.
Visitors to the area, which will also be home to east London outposts of the V&A and Sadler’s Wells, will be able to access exhibitions, events, talks and performance nights with club DJs.
The college has promised a “free, cultural programme aiming to welcome, engage and collaborate with the public” from September, when it opens.
Its Fashion Undressed festival will look at the future of the industry and its bid to be more sustainable, while visitors will also be able to see the next generation of designers in graduate shows and exhibitions.
There will also be an exhibition looking at British folk costume including Pearly King suits and Notting Hill Carnival costumes.
Tamsin Ace, head of cultural programming, said: “London College of Fashion’s new home can only be a vital cultural destination if we listen to our communities.”
