Barbie Couture: in Bologna the exhibition that transforms the fashion doll into a high fashion icon To tell the story of the most famous doll in the world between art, style and pop culture
More than just a fashion doll, far beyond the imaginary of a children's toy: Barbie is in effect a contemporary muse, a miniature mannequin on which generations of creatives have projected the transformations of costume, art and fashion. To describe this complex evolution, from September 19 to November 20, 2026 Galleria Cavour in Bologna is tinged with pink and hosts Barbie Couture, an exhibition curated by Alessandra Lepri that draws on Paola Felli's prestigious private collection to offer an immersive journey through more than 200 exceptional pieces.
Galleria Cavour becomes a temple of pop culture and luxury with the exhibition dedicated to Barbie
Conceived and organized by Contemporary Concept under the artistic direction of Gaetano La Mantia, the project is part of the cultural journey promoted by Gioia Martini, owner of Galleria Cavour. The goal is to reaffirm the famous Bolognese space as the ideal crossroads between high fashion, art and knowledge. Among the boutiques of the most important international fashion houses, the exhibition finds its natural habitat, taking up the ancient tradition of the poupées de mode that between the 17th and 18th centuries traveled to European courts as ambassadors of French style.
From OOAK editions to Haute Tailoring: the exhibition itinerary
Built on over thirty years of collecting research, Paola Felli's selection shows Barbie's ability to transform into a real design surface. The beating heart of the exhibition is The OOAK Collection (One Of A Kind), dedicated to unique pieces created by internationally renowned costume designers and designers such as NiniMomo, Robert Best, Marco Tiveron, Christine Donnard, Artist Creations and Magia 2000. It then continues through the Barbie Couture sections, focused on tailoring interpretations inspired by the big names in fashion; Art & Barbie, where the doll communicates with contemporary artistic trends; and Icons & Legends, a tribute to the myths of entertainment and pop culture. To complete the exhibition experience, there are historical documentary materials, period catalogs, a special mini-exhibition of miniature hats handmade by Alessandra Maregatti for Doria 1905 and the collaboration with Mimì et Mamà - Alta Sartoria, who will curate a stage performance in pink for the opening event.
Info and details for visiting the exhibition
The Barbie Couture exhibition will be open to the public with free admission from September 19 to November 20, 2026 at the Galleria Cavour (Via Farini 9/AB, Bologna), offering enthusiasts, fashion insiders and curious people an unmissable opportunity to rediscover the myth of the most famous doll in the world from a strictly curatorial point of view.
