Lisbon’s Museum of Design and Fashion (MUDE) offers a wide range of exhibits about the history of design and fashion during the 20th century, in Portugal and around the world.
The eight-story building that houses the museum is its own work of art. Located in Lisbon’s historic Pombaline Centre, the museum sits in the shell of an abandoned bank. The building has a raw urban interior with unfinished cement walls, columns and ceiling, providing a simple and striking backdrop for more than 2,000 items.
Set aside a few hours for your visit. The museum is easy to navigate, as the displays follow a chronological theme. Admire collections from the 1930s Art Deco era right up to the modern day.
The fashion collection showcases historic haute couture from classic designers such as Christobal Balenciaga, Paco Rabanne and Pierre Balmain. An influential local businessman, Francisco Capelo, donated a collection of some 1,200 couture outfits. Look for the stunning Jean Desses gown worn by Renee Zellweger at the 2001 Oscars.
Haute couture (“high fashion”) refers to clothes that have been custom-made and sewed by hand. They are usually constructed using the finest materials available and are often intricately decorated. Walk up close to the dresses to admire the detail and beading in each of the garments.
You’ll find the work of more than 230 designers from all over the world in the extensive design collection. Explore cutting-edge furniture, jewellery and glasswork dating from 1937 to the present by designers including Charles Eames, Phillipe Starck, Tom Dixon and George Nelson.
The Museum of Design and Fashion is located in the Baixa neighbourhood in downtown Lisbon. Come by tram or bus from most areas of the city. The museum is open daily except Monday and entry is free. There are no restaurants inside, but there are plenty of great places to eat in the surrounding neighbourhood.
