Blenheim Palace, arguably Britain’s Greatest Palace, is currently celebrating the most legendary names of British fashion with a brand new exhibition until 30th June 2024.
With Icons of British Fashion the UNESCO World Heritage Site is showcasing some of the country’s biggest names from Vivienne Westwood to Barbour.
The beauty of Blenheim is on full display and truly complemented by gorgeous creations from some of our favourites like John Galliano, Zandra Rhodes and Terry De Havilland in its biggest exhibition to date.
As you follow the runway through the three-hundred-year-old palace, you get to marvel at each of the rooms which pay homage to individual designers. Entering the great hall, you are welcomed by ensembles from Vivienne Westwood and creative partner Andreas Kronthaler. Four winners of Dress of the Year are on display courtesy of The Fashion Museum.
On our visit we loved the camp of Zandra Rhodes’ room and the haute-couture fantasy of John Galliano but we also really unexpectedly had a lot of love for Barbour who really brought the outside in and turned their space into the English countryside. Shamefully we were unfamiliar with Terry De Havilland’s story and loved connecting the dots and seeing so many pairs of his iconic heels on the likes of Kate Moss and Amy Winehouse. The majesty of Bruce Oldfield’s room felt correct with Stella McCartney’s contemporary looks closing this absolutely fabulous affair which has been a year in the making.
Kate Bellenger, Blenheim’s Keeper of palace and collections says, ‘We are not a gallery or Museum but a living, breathing home. Each designer was asked to respond to the environment and in some instances, they have been inspired to design new creations as a result. I believe visitors will be surprised by the talent and creative genius of the British Fashion industry, but also the workmanship, quality and sheer magic that goes into creating each piece.’
Entry to the exhibition is included in any ticket to the Palace including Palace, Park and Gardens, Annual Pass or Privilege Pass.
For more information and to book tickets see: www.blenheimpalace.com
