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Credit: Supplied

Tomorrow, Melbourne-based fashion label DI$COUNT UNIVERSE are opening a retrospective exhibition in Melbourne, one that will showcase their entire archive and is characteristically titled the It’s-too-soon-for-a-retrospective Retrospective Exhibition.

DI$COUNT was launched in 2009 by designers Nadia Napreychikov and Cami James, who met while they were students at RMIT. Their label quickly became known for its opulence and subversion, a thesis epitomised by the brand’s manifesto, which states that “the DI$COUNT designer’s output is steeped in humour and irony, cliché and imitation”.

This is the first time the label’s entire collection will be seen together, with over 500 garments on display. If nothing else, this retrospective is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to find out how many sequins a human retina can physically take in at once. The fact that a retrospective is being held for a brand that has only existed for six years reflects DI$COUNT’s audacity, but isn’t completely uncalled for – the label has met with incredible success in its short life. It has been worn by a ridiculous number of pop stars, including Madonna, Beyoncé, Grimes, and Nicki Minaj. The retrospective is a chance to see the ‘Birthday Suit’ worn by Katy Perry and the iconic You Will Never Own Me sequin dress worn by Rihanna in real life.

Part of this success is linked to brand’s innovative attitude. They tend to release small, erratic collections rather than following the traditional fashion seasons, and conduct most of their business online rather than in-store.

Of course, no exhibition would be complete without Banksy’s favourite place to exit, otherwise known as a gift shop, and this is no exception. There will be limited edition pieces and accessories for sale, with prices ranging from $3 to $400.

DI$COUNT UNIVERSE: the it’s-too-soon-for-a-retrospective Retrospective Exhibition is on from the November 29 – December 9 at 32-24 Wellington Street, Collingwood, Melbourne. Further details about the label can be found here.

Tile and cover image: Matt Jelonek/WireImage