Fans gathered on Saturday, 2nd of May 2026 at Newbridge Silverware’s Museum of Style Icons for the official opening of Boy George: Chameleon of Style, a landmark fashion exhibition celebrating the life, style and cultural influence of Boy George.
The global music and fashion icon made a special appearance at the launch event, where invited guests, fans and members of the public were given an exclusive first look at an extraordinary collection of his most iconic garments, stage-worn looks and celebrated hats.
Running until 1st June 2026, the exhibition marks the only public viewing of the collection anywhere in the world before it travels to Julien’s Auctions in Beverly Hills later this summer, where the pieces will be offered at auction.
Born George Alan O’Dowd and raised in South East London to Irish parents Jerry and Dinah O’Dowd, Boy George spoke warmly about his Irish roots and the personal significance of unveiling the exhibition in Ireland. Among the highlights on display was a striking purple plaid ensemble made by his mother, Dinah, a talented seamstress and dressmaker whose influence helped shape his early creative expression.
Guests viewed a visually striking collection charting Boy George’s remarkable evolution from the underground New Romantic scene of late-1970s London to international superstardom as the frontman of Culture Club. The exhibition featured a number of standout pieces including his iconic hats designed by renowned Irish milliner Philip Treacy, the memorable yellow two-piece ensemble worn during his performance of Karma Chameleon on The Late Show with David Letterman, a flamboyant 1984 Wembley Arena headdress, and a couture jacket by Jean Paul Gaultier worn during the designer’s Spring 2020 Haute Couture show.
William Doyle, CEO of Newbridge Silverware, said the exhibition represented one of the most vibrant and visually exciting collections ever presented at the Museum of Style Icons.
“Boy George is synonymous with individuality, creativity and fearless self-expression. His fashion legacy continues to inspire generations and we were delighted to welcome him to Newbridge for this very special occasion,” he said.
Martin Nolan, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Julien’s Auctions, said the exhibition celebrated an artist whose influence extends far beyond music.
“This collection reflects a defining cultural moment in fashion and popular culture. Launching it in Ireland, where Boy George’s roots and enduring popularity remain so strong, made today especially meaningful,” he said.
Admission to the exhibition remains free and visitors can view Boy George: Chameleon of Style at the Museum of Style Icons until 1st June 2026.
The collection forms part of Bold Luxury: Boy George Edit, which will be sold by Julien’s Auctions later this summer. Following its exclusive exhibition in Ireland, the collection will travel to Beverly Hills for auction, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire pieces that embody Boy George’s unique legacy.
Registration and Bidding Information:
Bidding begins June 12th, 2026
Live Auction takes place July 14th, 2026 at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.
Collectors worldwide can participate online in real time by registering and bidding at www.juliensauctions.com
For more information visit www.newbridgesilverware.com
