Biba was created by Barbara Hulanicki in 1964 when she opened her first shop in a former chemist’s location on Abingdon Road, Kensington. Eventually the store moved to Kensington High Street and later took over the old Derry and Tom’s department store making it the first department store to open in London since WWII.
It was described as “a strange Disneyland.” Shop helpers were told never to approach customers and the phrase “Can I help you?” was banned. Music played at the highest volume possible. Still it attracted legions of fans including Yoko Ono, Sonny and Cher, Mick and Bianca Jagger, Brigitte Bardot and Twiggy as well as local college students.
Unfortunately, it didn’t last long. LIke a rock star, Biba lived fast, died young and will always be remembered.
Today’s VPOD is an example of Biba’s simple style. It’s a coveted find for a vintage fashionista!
Available at Shrimpton Couture.
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Technorati Tags: Fashion, Vintage, Vintage Clothing, 1970s, Biba
