April 12, 2023 |
The glittering world of the Georgian court is coming head-to-head with the high glamour of the modern-day red carpet in a brand-new exhibition at Kensington Palace. Alongside stunning, contemporary couture looks created by some of the savviest designers of today and worn by celebrities like Lizzo, Katy Perry and Lady Gaga, the exhibition pays homage to the regal design language of the Georgian era – from its distinctive mantua to its intricately embroidered court suit. The Georgian fantasy, dubbed Crown to Couture, draws fascinating parallels between the world of new-age celebrity style and the eighteenth-century royal Court. Not to mention, it’s the largest exhibition to have ever been staged at the historic palace, with over 200 fascinating objects on view, glittering across intimate exhibition spaces.
Upon entry, you’ll embark on a historic journey – beginning with the finest examples of 18th century court fashion followed by red-carpet luxuries and its notoriously elusive ‘after party’ looks. Among the objects of desire will be some of the Historic Royal Palaces charity’s own collection – the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection – which is usually cared for by a team of experts at Hampton Court Palace. “Just as the designers of today dress celebrity royalty for important public events, Kensington Palace was home to the original red carpet of the Georgian court,” says Polly Putnam, Historic Royal Palaces’ curator.
As the 2023 Met Gala approaches, feel notions of its nostalgia within the palace’s grand halls as the bejewelled and bedazzling Moschino chandelier dress – designed by Jeremy Scott and worn by Katy Perry at the 2019 Met Gala – is presented. The Swarovski covered ensemble is the perfect example of bourgeois elegance and flamboyance. Scott’s AW20 Marie Antoinette inspired dress is also on display with its cascading 18th century ruffles and pastel hues.
Moschino’s presence in the Crown to Couture exhibition is further amplified by the display of its fabulous, feathered gown worn by Gen-Z It-girl Iris Law at the 2022 Met Gala. The sensual cut of the halter neck wrap dress with cut-out bodice is accompanied by feathery gold and silver embellishments and finished with the train of a sky-blue gradient skirt.
Creating the experience, Historic Royal Palaces has also enlisted Emmy-award winning production designer Joseph Bennett – best known for work on Alexander McQueen’s trailblazing catwalks – to solidify the promise of a truly unforgettable visit.
Photography courtesy of Moschino. ‘Crown To Couture’ is now open the public. Book tickets here.
