Dress Codes: A Modern Take on Royal Fashion History

Introducing a New Perspective: Young Curators at Kensington Palace

In an unprecedented move, Kensington Palace has entrusted teenagers with the creation of a major exhibition, aiming to breathe fresh life into the traditional realm of royal fashion. This innovative approach has given birth to "Dress Codes," a trailblazing exhibition that showcases the work of young people alongside historic royal garments. By involving young curators, the palace seeks to connect with a younger audience, offering a contemporary lens through which to view the rich history of royal ceremonial dress. This collaboration has not only infused the exhibition with modern creativity but also highlighted the timeless significance of fashion in the royal context.

A Glimpse into Royal Wardrobes Past and Present

The exhibition proudly displays 34 meticulously selected items, 15 of which have never been exhibited before. Among these treasures is a stunning red beaded Bruce Oldfield dress worn by Diana, Princess of Wales, during her 1986 royal tour to Saudi Arabia. This piece not only encapsulates the elegance of Princess Diana but also reflects the diplomatic role of fashion in royal tours. Additionally, the exhibit features two charming Liberty floral cotton dresses worn by Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret in 1936. These garments provide a delightful glimpse into the fashion of the era and the sisters’ personal style. A rare mourning bodice worn by Queen Victoria further enriches the collection, offering insights into the somber yet regal attire of the Victorian period.

Young Creators Bring Fresh Insights

Young participants in the project contributed more than just their ideas; they also crafted their own garments inspired by the historic pieces. One such creation is a punk-style outfit, influenced by a tartan suit once worn by the Duke of Windsor. Autumn, an 18-year-old contributor, remarked on the significance of the project, stating, "It speaks to what we know as a generation and it gets our insight into what we find interesting… I think it’s a way of bringing in a whole new audience." This fusion of historical and contemporary fashion not only bridges generational gaps but also highlights the enduring relevance of royal attire in modern culture.

Personal Reflections and Historical Connections

Sneha, a 17-year-old participant, expressed her awe at the opportunity to work with such historical artifacts. She shared her fascination with Princess Diana’s dresses and the Liberty frocks worn by the young princesses Elizabeth and Margaret. Sneha’s experience underscores the human element of these garments, reminding us that they were once worn by real people with their own stories. This connection to history was further emphasized by the young curators’ visits to Hampton Court Palace, where they could examine the intricate details of the dresses up close. Such experiences not only deepened their understanding of the garments but also reignited their appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each piece.

Power and Diplomacy Through Fashion

The exhibition also delves into the theme of power and diplomacy, themes that resonated deeply with the young curators. Helene, a 17-year-old participant, found particular inspiration in Queen Victoria’s attire. She noted how Queen Victoria’s fashion choices assertively conveyed her authority, incorporating masculine elements in her clothing to challenge the norms of her time. This exploration of "power dressing" aligns with current discussions about soft diplomacy and the role of fashion in expressing influence. The inclusion of such themes demonstrates how historical fashion remains relevant in contemporary discourse.

A Two-Way Collaboration

Matthew Storey, a collections curator at Historic Royal Palaces, highlighted the mutual learning and growth that emerged from this collaboration. He praised the young participants’ curiosity and engagement, noting how their questions challenged him and his team, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas. This project exemplifies the value of intergenerational collaboration, where both young and experienced individuals can learn from and inspire each other. The exhibition, which took over three years to curate, runs from March 13 to November 30 at Kensington Palace, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the intersection of historical royalty and modern perspective.

"Dress Codes" is more than an exhibition; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of royal fashion and the importance of involving young voices in preserving and interpreting history. By blending the past with the present, this exhibition not only honors the legacy of royal attire but also paves the way for future generations to engage with and appreciate these cultural treasures.