Crown to Couture
They're calling it the 'Fashion show of the Centuries', and it's taking place over Kensington Palace's State Apartments and Piggott Galleries this Summer, through Autumn 2023.
Comprising of more than 200 items of historic significance, including incredible gowns, handbags, jewellery, shoes and court suits - Crown to Couture is all about craftsmanship, opulence, and beauty. Fashion that was worn by royals and pop royalty alike, is set amidst the sumptuous royal apartments and galleries of Kensington, surrounded by objet d'art of equal significance.
A dress of note is the 'Silver Tissue dress' from the 1660's - making it some 360 years old. It is exceptionally rare, because most dresses of such refinement were actually reworked as the fashions changed over time, meaning few originals survived. The level of intricate detail, and different materials used in the construction of this dress, is phenomenal. You will also find a dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday, and more recent creations, such as the Peter Dundas designed dress (see below) worn by Beyoncé to the 2017 GRAMMY Awards, as well as others worn to red carpet events by luminaries through the ages. Also, check out the widest surviving court gown in Britain - at nearly 3 metres!
Another favourite is this 2018 womenswear ensemble by Louis Vuitton, combining a take on an 18th century court suit with sportswear - bringing costume into the everyday wardrobe.
The exhibition is on until October 29th, 2023, and tickets need to be purchased in advance, here - we highly recommend!