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British Fashion Icons Transform Blenheim Palace

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Blenheim Palace, renowned for its historic grandeur, announces its most significant fashion exhibition to date, featuring a stellar lineup of British fashion icons. From March 23rd to June 30th 2024, visitors will witness a unique collaboration between esteemed designers and the UNESCO World Heritage site, as each fashion house takes over a significant room to create “Icons of British Fashion.”

Blenheim Palace, renowned for its historic grandeur – South Lawn

A Tribute to British Icons:

The exhibition will pay homage to the illustrious careers of British fashion legends, with each room along the visitor route in the 300-year-old Palace dedicated to showcasing the iconic works of renowned designers.

Highlights Include:

  • Vivienne Westwood: The Great Hall will feature avant-garde looks from the late Dame Vivienne Westwood, showcasing her long-term collaboration with creative partner Andreas Kronthaler.
  • Jean Muir: Visitors can marvel at the timeless and elegant designs of Jean Muir, celebrated for her precision cut and attention to detail, displayed alongside iconic pieces like the Bath Fashion Museum 1979 Dress of the Year.
  • Terry de Havilland: The exhibition will highlight key styles that have defined the brand’s journey, including designs adorned by style icons such as Bianca Jagger and bespoke shoes crafted for Amy Winehouse’s UK tour.
  • Turnbull & Asser: Marking the 150th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill’s birth, Turnbull & Asser presents a captivating collection inspired by the iconic leader’s sartorial choices and disposition.
  • Bruce Oldfield: Set against the backdrop of the Green Drawing Room, Bruce Oldfield’s installation showcases modern designs that capture the essence of grand occasions with intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance.
  • Zandra Rhodes: In the Red Drawing Room, visitors will be treated to a celebration of Rhodes’ fifty-year career, featuring vibrant statement prints and unique silhouettes that epitomize her bold and eclectic style.
  • Barbour: Explore the multifaceted world of Barbour beyond its iconic wax jackets, highlighting its rich family history, fashion collaborations, and commitment to sustainability.
  • Lulu Guinness: The exhibition unveils a treasure trove of handbags from the Lulu Guinness archive, showcasing the brand’s evolution in design, craftsmanship, and glamour over 30 years.
  • Temperley London: Alice Temperley presents an ethereal installation capturing the craftsmanship and escapism of Temperley London, transporting visitors to a realm where reality blends with fantasy.
  • Stephen Jones Millinery for Christian Dior: Celebrating the longstanding relationship between Stephen Jones and Christian Dior, the exhibition features three complete outfits and a special smoking cap paying homage to Sir Winston Churchill.
  • Stella McCartney: Experience a catwalk through the Long Library with iconic designs from Stella McCartney’s career, highlighting her pioneering stance on sustainability and innovation in fashion.

From the Keeper

Kate Ballenger, Keeper of Palace and Collections, commented: “We are privileged to collaborate with such incredible British designers and celebrate the creativity within the UK’s fashion industry. Blenheim Palace has a rich history in British fashion, and this exhibition is a testament to the lasting impact of British fashion on the global stage.”

Admission and Booking:

Admission to the Icons of British Fashion exhibition is free with any valid Blenheim Palace ticket. For more information and ticket bookings, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/icons-of-british-fashion/.

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