Join us for an extraordinary celebration of fashion as the ultimate form of self-expression with Dame Zandra Rhodes, one of Britain’s most iconic and influential designers, alongside Daniel Lismore, the acclaimed artist and ‘Living Sculpture’ recognised by Vogue as ‘England’s Most Eccentric Dresser’. In this intimate conversation at Saatchi Gallery, these two visionary creatives will explore fashion’s transformative power and its role in shaping identity, challenging conventions, and liberating creative expression.

From the King’s Road’s swinging sixties revolution to the raw energy of punk, Chelsea has been the epicentre of Britain’s most significant cultural and style movements. As both witness to and architect of some of these seismic shifts, Dame Zandra Rhodes offers unparalleled insight into fashion’s capacity to reflect and reshape society. Her fearless approach to colour, print, and silhouette has challenged fashion orthodoxy for over five decades, creating clothes that are as much works of art as they are statements of personal freedom.

This conversation will traverse Zandra’s remarkable journey through fashion’s most defining moments, from her early days printing fabrics to dressing rock legends and royalty alike. Daniel Lismore brings his unique perspective as a performance artist and environmental advocate. A champion of sustainable fashion and proponent of recycling clothes. Together, they will explore how fashion can become a powerful canvas for radical self-expression and artistic rebellion.

Drawing from Zandra Rhode’s compelling memoir Iconic: My Life in Fashion in 50 Objects and Daniel Lismore’s own book Be Yourself, Everyone Else Is Already Taken, both speakers will share stories behind their most memorable creations and reflect on how fashion continues to serve as a powerful tool for identity, rebellion, and self-discovery.

This unmissable session promises to be both a tribute to fashion’s rich heritage and a bold statement about its continuing relevance as a force for liberation and self-expression.

This talk will be hosted by Kate Hutchinson of the Last Bohemians podcast.