Nestled away from the bustling activity of Broadway Market in East London, a unique fashion archive has found its home within Netil House. This collection, curated by Sarah Faisal and known as Baraboux, offers visitors a glimpse into a world of high fashion from the nineties and early 2000s. The archive is situated several floors up in a converted warehouse, accessible either by climbing stairs or riding an elevator. Inside, the vast space features concrete interiors softened by metal sculptures and sheepskin accents. What truly captivates visitors, however, is the treasure trove of iconic pieces from renowned designers such as Maison Margiela, Chloé, Prada, Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Comme des Garçons, Helmut Lang, Louis Vuitton, Alaïa, Issey Miyake, and Balenciaga. Many of these items are available for rental, providing fashion enthusiasts with the opportunity to wear otherwise unaffordable garments.
The origins of Baraboux trace back to the early days of the pandemic when Sarah was pursuing her studies in photography at university. Inspired by her upbringing immersed in online fashion imagery, Sarah began to bridge the gap between iconic fashion pieces and their real-world counterparts. Her fascination with fashion led her to create a capsule collection that would eventually evolve into the extensive archive seen today. The archive not only serves as a repository of fashion history but also as a living museum where pieces can be experienced firsthand.
Sarah and her colleague Anna have developed an intimate knowledge of the collection, navigating it effortlessly even in low light conditions. Their familiarity with each item allows them to maintain the archive meticulously. Anna notes that she can identify pieces by touch alone, ensuring that every garment is returned to its rightful place. Despite some technical challenges, such as non-functioning lights, the passion and dedication of Sarah and Anna shine through, making Baraboux a must-visit destination for fashion lovers.
In this hidden gem, fashion enthusiasts can explore a carefully curated selection of vintage clothing, reliving the glamour and innovation of past decades. Baraboux stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic fashion and the power of personal connection to timeless designs. Through its offerings, the archive invites visitors to experience the magic of fashion history in a tangible and accessible way.