Now Open: A New Fashion Exhibition Is Taking Over Blenheim Palace

Some of Britain’s biggest names in fashion are coming together for a huge exhibition, backdropped by the ornate rooms of Blenheim Palace. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of former PM Winston Churchill, it’s safe to say that Blenheim Palace is no stranger to making history – even when it comes to fashion. The historical home is set to host one of the biggest style-led exhibitions of the year, Icons of British Fashion, which opens its doors to visitors this month. Here’s how to get tickets.

Icons of British Fashion at Blenheim Palace: What To Expect

Icons of British Fashion has been in the works for a while now – and now we’ll finally be able to see it come life at Blenheim Palace.

Blenheim Palace has long played a part in British fashion history, having hosted an array of fashion shows, photoshoots and catwalks (some even attended by royalty) over the years. And now, the Palace will be adding yet another string to its bow with the arrival of Icons of British Fashion.

Led by a roster of world-class fashion houses, the exhibition is spread across several rooms on the 300-year-old Palace’s visitor route. Each room is dedicated to one brand or designer, spotlighting their work from early beginnings through to present day, alongside bespoke designs and loans.

Temperley London AW24

Some forecasted highlights of the exhibition include designs by the late Dame Vivienne Westwood and creative partner Andreas Kronthaler, a selection of new pieces by Alice Temperley MBE (who shot her AW24 collection at Blenheim Palace) and a collection of bags by Lulu Guinness inspired by the Countess of Marlborough.

Blenheim Palace will also be paying homage to its own fashion icon, Winston Churchill, in honour of the 150th anniversary of his birth. Visitors will be able to see an original Churchill Siren Suit, loaned by Turnbull & Asser, alongside a new take on the iconic boiler suit and a smoking cap designed by Steven Jones.

The designers and brands confirmed as part of the exhibition line-up include:

• Barbour
• Bruce Oldfield
• Jean Muir
• Lulu Guinness
• Stella McCartney
• Stephen Jones Millinery for Christian Dior
• Temperley London
• Terry de Havilland
• Turnbull & Asser
• Vivienne Westwood
• Zandra Rhodes

‘We wanted to create an experience that not only celebrates the journey of my most loved and iconic designs but also pushes the boundaries of what a fashion exhibition can be,’ said designer Lulu Guinness. ‘Blenheim Palace provides the perfect backdrop for this exploration, and I am thrilled to share my world of bags with the public.’

When?

Saturday 23 March – Sunday 30 June 2024

Where?

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL

How To Book Tickets For Icons of British Fashion

Tickets for Icons of British Fashion at Blenheim Palace can be booked via blenheimpalace.com

You will need an Annual or Privilege Pass, or a Palace Park and Gardens ticket to see the display. Ticket prices start at £22 per person.

Featured image: Wikimedia Commons