The Fashion Museum is the only speciality museum dedicated to fashion and fashion history in the Baltic States. Exhibitions often explore the connections between fashion, identity, and society, making it an engaging stop for both design enthusiasts and casual visitors. The museum also regularly hosts themed displays and events that bring historical and contemporary fashion to life.
Exhibitions and collection
The museum offers a small but unique permanent exhibition, complemented by theatrical use of sound and light, as well as themed exhibitions that change twice a year, offering both the residents and visitors of Riga the opportunity to learn about fashion and design behind it, as well as the history of clothing.
The museum's exhibitions feature costumes and accessories from the museum's collection, which includes historical clothing from the 18th century onward, as well as the most striking examples of Western fashion from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. Clothes made or worn in Latvia also form an important part of the collection. The exhibitions also offer an insight into garments from impressive and interesting private collections.
Location and atmosphere
The Fashion Museum is located in the Old Town of Riga, close to the House of the Blackheads - in an ancient street with a rich history, which can be felt in the three halls of the museum, the oldest part of which dates back to the 14th century. The museum also has an Art Deco café, a gift shop and a bookshop dedicated to fashion and style.
Why visit
The Fashion Museum in the heart of Riga’s Old Town is a wonderful place to explore the history of clothing, design and changing trends. Its rotating exhibitions present fashion from different eras, countries and style movements, showing how clothing reflects culture, identity and everyday life. It is an enjoyable stop for anyone interested in design, history or beautiful period details.
Historical highlight
The museum features carefully curated displays of historic garments, accessories and fashion-related objects, often focusing on particular time periods or themes. Exhibitions highlight craftsmanship, fabrics and silhouettes, while also showing how social change, politics and innovation influenced the way people dressed.
How to get there
The museum is located in Riga’s Old Town, within easy walking distance of major landmarks such as Town Hall Square and St Peter’s Church. It can also be reached by public transport, with nearby bus and tram stops followed by a short walk through the historic centre.
