Who’s Who of British designers collaborate for Icons of British Fashion exhibition at Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace has collaborated with some of Britain’s most iconic fashion designers and brands to create Icons of British Fashion, the largest exhibition in its 300-year history, open to the public from today (23rd March) to 30th June, sponsored by nearby British luxury retail destination; Bicester Village.
From the moment visitors arrive and step onto the red carpet leading up to the Palace, they’ll experience a world-class fashion exhibition featuring designs and displays by the late Dame Vivienne Westwood, Jean Muir, Terry de Havilland, Bruce Oldfield, Turnbull & Asser, Zandra Rhodes, Lulu Guinness, Barbour, Alice Temperley, Stella McCartney and Stephen Jones Millinery for Christian Dior.
Curated amongst Blenheim Palace’s own priceless collections, each room in Britain’s Greatest Palace will pay homage to a British fashion icon and feature a display of renowned classic pieces, as well as never-before-seen looks – including unique items crafted exclusively by Lulu Guinness for Blenheim Palace. Along the exhibition there’ll also be a variety of photo opportunities for guests to have their fashion moment in the spotlight.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site has also worked closely with some of the designers to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of its own fashion icon, Sir Winston Churchill. The exhibition will unveil a captivating collection including one of the original Churchill Siren Suits on loan from Turnbull & Asser, as well as a new take on the iconic boiler suit and a specially designed smoking cap by Stephen Jones. On closer inspection, the velvet cap will feature Winston Churchill’s hand-embroidered initials as well as a clementine – in honour of his wife – within the lining.
Dominic Hare, Chief Executive of Blenheim Palace said: “It is an honour to welcome the work and creativity of some of the most iconic fashion labels of our time to Blenheim Palace. The whole team here have worked tirelessly to bring to life what has been years in the making, to ensure the exhibition is a hugely exciting and captivating experience for our visitors.
“Blenheim Palace has played a significant role in the UK’s fashion industry: it has hosted fashion shows; photoshoots; and many designers have been guests of the family over the years. Christian Dior hosted two shows here in 1954 and 1958 in aid of the Red Cross, and then returned in 2016 for their Cruise Collection. Cecil Beaton has also done shoots with the family, and we have been the location of many brand campaigns over the years. We have a rich fashion history and this exhibition should help cement our legacy in this fascinating industry.”
A Bicester Village spokesperson added: “We’re delighted to be supporting the ‘Icons of British Fashion’ exhibition at Blenheim Palace. Our sponsorship signifies Bicester Village’s commitment to homegrown talent including British design icons found within our own stable of luxury boutiques such as Vivienne Westwood, Barbour and Stella McCartney. In supporting cultural endeavours such as this, Bicester Village continues its dedication to shaping a narrative that celebrates both the heritage of British fashion, the future of British designers and the evolution of experiential retail.”
Admission to the Icons of British Fashion exhibition in 2024 will be free with any valid Blenheim Palace ticket including Palace, Park and Gardens, Annual Pass or a Privilege Pass.
All visitors attending the exhibition will be offered a complimentary styling appointment at Bicester Village where a personal shopper will be on hand to offer tailored style advice, insider tips and personalised recommendations.
For more information about the exhibition visit and to book tickets visit, www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/icons-of-british-fashion/.