Kensington Palace’s new “Dress Codes” exhibition showcases 34 royal garments, including clothing from Queen Victoria and Diana, Princess of Wales. Curated by Matthew Storey, it reflects royal dress norms and cultural considerations. The exhibition illustrates a diverse history of royal attire and is on display until November 30, with tickets included in entrance fees.
Kensington Palace in London is set to host a new exhibition titled “Dress Codes,” showcasing 34 pieces from the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. The exhibition features garments worn by royals including Queen Victoria and Diana, Princess of Wales. Curated by Matthew Storey from the Historic Royal Palaces, this display highlights a diverse range of clothing worn at court, thus reflecting the collection’s extensive history of 9,925 objects.
The exhibition opens with a striking red silk gown designed by Bruce Oldfield for Diana during a 1987 state visit to Saudi Arabia, a piece chosen for its adherence to evening dress rules while also respecting cultural norms. In contrast, other items like the Prince of Wales’ 1930s houndstooth tweed suit showcase a break from tradition, representing a more relaxed style that symbolised youthful rebellion against his father’s preferences.
Several pieces have recently been acquired, including Vivienne Westwood’s black polka-dot gown worn when she became a Dame Commander in 2006. Conservation supervisor Libby Thompson highlights that newly acquired items often require careful restoration, with specific attention to detail needed for both structural and cosmetic repairs, such as on the gold lamé damask wedding dress from the 1920s.
A key highlight of the exhibition is Queen Victoria’s black silk bodice from the late 1860s or early 1870s, notable for its rarity since few garments from this era have survived. Storey believes this piece offers insight into Queen Victoria’s presence and physicality, enhancing the visitor’s understanding of royal history.
The exhibition runs until November 30, and tickets, which include entry to Kensington Palace, are priced at approximately £24.70 for adults, available through the Historic Royal Palaces website.
Kensington Palace’s “Dress Codes” exhibition provides a unique glimpse into royal dress history, featuring notable garments from iconic figures like Diana and Queen Victoria. The display encompasses both traditional and unconventional pieces, reflecting changing styles and cultural considerations. With careful conservation efforts, the exhibition not only preserves history but also enhances visitors’ understanding of royal fashion and its significance.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com