The Icons of British Fashion Exhibition showcases some of the UK’s most prominent names in the fashion industry, celebrating their contributions to design and exhibiting
some of the most beautiful clothing the UK fashion industry has seen.
As the largest exhibition in its 300-year history, Blenheim Palace has collaborated with 11 iconic British fashion houses, exhibiting works by the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Jean Muir, Terry de Havilland, Bruce Oldfield, Zandra Rhodes, Barbour, John Galliano, Lulu Guinness, Temperley London, Stephen Jones Millinery, and Stella McCartney.
Taking you on a journey through the British fashion industry, this exhibition immerses you in a new world of fashion, teleporting you to different lands as you journey through the minds of the greats.
Beginning in the Grand Hall, the late Dame Vivienne Westwood is the opening act, and a fitting one at that. Exhibiting a series of gowns that perfectly embody her elaborate design style, this showcase focuses on her elegant side. Wedding dresses, voluminous skirts and Cinderella-inspired gowns are at the heart of this exhibit, a nice change from her usual punk-inspired portfolio of which we usually see.
Step around the corner to find a staircase adorned with dressmaker Jean Muir’s timeless designs. Regarded as one of the greatest dressmakers of the 20th Century, Jean Muir is renowned for her high standards of craftsmanship, evident in this showcase. It is clear that Muir’s designs were for the modern, elegant woman, regardless of age, with a portfolio that celebrates simple, wearable silhouettes that exude restrained elegance and comfortable wearing.
Take a detour into pop culture through Terry de Havillan’s world of shoes. Exhibiting his designs that featured in none other than the Sex and the City remake, And Just Like That, Emily in Paris, and the Rocky Horror Picture Show, Terry de Havillan’s footprint on screen and across the arts is prevalent.
With clear influences from the 1920s and oriental design, Dame Zandra Rhodes’ collection showcases her dramatic designs with her distinctive look. Paving the way for fashion as theatre and entertainment, this charismatic exhibit perfectly embodies her love for the art of print as an intrinsic influence on garment shape, with elaborate printed chiffon fabrics and flowing silhouettes being at the heart of her collection.
Exhibited in one of the grandest rooms in the palace, John Galliano makes a statement with elaborate ball gowns sporting metres of fabric, ruffled skirts and embellished bodices. Drawing on feminine, sophisticated and elegant silhouettes, his breathtaking couture gowns are just that. Breathtaking.
Lulu Guinness is perhaps one of the most unique designers on show here. With handbag designs lending themselves to the witty and playful side of fashion, Guinness is famous for her quirky line of bags and accessories. Step into a forest of spinning trees, adorned with sweet bucket bags, lip-shaped clutches and uniquely crafted handbags, perfect for the inner child beneath most.
The otherworldly party scene that screams Temperley London comes next. Perfectly embodying the romance and decadence of a bygone era that inspires Alice Temperley’s designs, this room is full of life. With clear nods to the 1920s, feathers, luxurious beading, sheer fabrics and fitted silhouettes are prominent across Temperley’s showcase, elevating designs that started as bridal, with exquisite craftsmanship and ethereal escapism.
The largest exhibit and finale belongs to Stella McCartney and her mission to put sustainability at the forefront of her designs. Showcasing not only her most famous red carpet moments, Blenheim puts a spotlight on McCartney’s innovative leather alternatives made from fungi, mycelium, grape, apple waste and beyond, placing animal welfare at the heart of what she does.
‘’I’m not just a fashion designer anymore; I’m an activist.’’ Stella McCartney
Icons of British Fashion excels in celebrating the greats that have transformed the British Fashion Industry. Showcasing designs that have shaped how we view fashion today, and educating us about the designers that have impacted the industry as we know it, Blenheim Palace has put these iconic British Fashion designers at the forefront of our minds through beautifully designed installations and immersive experiences.
Icons of British Fashion at Blenheim Palace. Showing until 30th June
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