In 2010, National Museums Scotland acquired the internationally significant Bernat Klein collection comprising some 4,000 objects. This exhibition will be the first major retrospective devoted to Klein and his work, providing an opportunity for the first public display this vibrant collection.

Available to hire from late 2023

Klein’s extraordinary couture fabrics caused a sensation when they first hit the Paris catwalk of the House of Chanel in 1963. Klein’s trademark mohair tweeds with bold textures and daring use of colour were subsequently used by designers such as Dior, Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Cardin.

The exhibition also explores how Bernat Klein used graphic design to set his company apart from his competitors. Klein’s move into design consultancy saw him working with progressive British and Scandinavian firms.

Bold screen-printed garments will tell the story of how Klein’s focus moved away from couture and towards ready-to-wear fashion as he established his own mail-order company in 1973. Yarns and hand-knitting patterns developed by his wife, Margaret, will also be displayed.

This vibrant exhibition will further be brought to life with the use of film, projected archival footage and interviews. It features over 70 objects including fashion, furniture, tapestry, paintings alongside personal items such as his sketchbooks.