See the work of the most influential names in the fashion world and throughout history in the exciting NEW Crown to Couture Exhibition at Kensington Palace. Featuring 17th-century gowns worn by nobility and recent Met Gala gowns worn by stars like Beyoncé, Audrey Hepburn and Billie Eilish, it’s a skin-pinching exhibit for lovers of fashion and pop culture.
Visitors can get up close to every bead, sequin, stitch, and skirt gate. And if you didn’t already before, you’ll find a tremendous appreciation for the beautiful architecture of each dress throughout history.
Whether you are looking for unique things to do in London or you are on the hunt for a celebrity gown created by your favourite designer, this blockbuster exhibition is open to everyone! So before you race ahead and book tickets to this fashion pilgrimage, let’s get into some of the finer details…
What is the Crown to Couture Exhibition at Kensington Palace?
There are 200 fascinating objects to browse in this huge display, including gowns worn by royalty and the biggest celebrities in history. Explore diverse designs from London fashion week to the Met Gala, an 18th-century dress from the Georgian period, carpet couture and so much more…
There really are so many impressive outfits on display that signify some of the most iconic moments in fashion history including political gowns that you may have seen recently that support the LGBTQ community.
You’ll get to see famous looks like Billy Porter’s “Sun God” outfit, styled by Sam Ratelle and designed by The Blonds for the 2019 Met Gala as well as Kendall Jenner’s shimmering Hepburn-inspired Givenchy dress worn to the 2021 event.
One of the most famous dresses in the collection is the stunning yellow mantua which is on loan from the National Museums of Scotland. It is the widest surviving court gown in Britain, measuring a whopping 3 metres wide! You will also get to feast your eyes on the beautiful Rockingham Mantua – one of several objects from Historic Royal Palaces’ Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection.
You’ll get to learn all about the preparation of dressing historical figures and celebrities for important events. This may sound odd but once you see the grandeur of the dresses in the exhibit you’ll understand that dressing is no easy task.
Find rare gems like The Silver Tissue Dress – it’s 360 years old! As you get up close to this delicate garment, you’ll be able to see the impressive craftsmanship that has lasted through the centuries, from The Stuarts’ reign until now.
Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX
Other Things to See & Do at Kensington Palace…
Queen Victoria's Tiara Collection
Yes, you’ve browsed a variety of couture outfits but what about the accessories? Discover a collection of stunning pieces at the palace is Queen Victoria’s emerald Tiara, necklace, earrings and broach.
You can actually see this enchanting item at the palace for free as it’s not part of the exhibition. The tiara was picked out by her beloved husband Prince Albert and can be seen in family portraits of her by Franz Xavier in 1846 and 1859…You can also find her grandaughter’s tiaras, the Kokoshnik tiara and the Fife Tiara.
Kensington Gardens
Italian Gardens Cafe
You can also grab a lunchtime meal too! Enjoy a wide variety of salads, sandwiches, cakes, snacks, and hot and cold drinks.
And in the Summer? Grab some creamy gelato for your walk around the idyllic gardens.
How Much Does the Crown to Couture Exhibition Cost?
Prices for non-members (no donation):
Adults (18-64) £25.40
Under 5’s go free
Child (5-15) £12.70
Senior (65+) £20.30
Full-time student (16-17 – must bring ID) £20.30
Disabled concession £20.30
Disabled carers/companions go free
Groups of 15 people or more £23.40
Remember, you must book tickets online!
When Will This Event Take Place?
FAQs
How long is the Crown and Couture exhibition?
What is on display?
The collections with showcase historic artistry and dress-making as well as famous modern designers like Givenchy.
Which tube station is Kensington Palace?
Is there a dress code to visit Kensington Palace?
How long does it take to make a Couture dress?
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