SUPPORT OUR JOURNALISM: Please consider donating to keep our website running and free for all - thank you!

Royal News

New Kensington Palace exhibition to include rare royal dresses

Several never-before-seen garments will be going on display at Kensington Palace in a new Spring 2025 exhibition. 

Historic Royal Palaces has announced that a new exhibition focusing on royal fashion will be opening at Kensington Palace in March. 

Dress Codes will “explore the codes and conventions of royal clothing, and the powerful impact fashion can make when boundaries are pushed and dress codes evolve”.

One of the most famous evening gowns worn by Diana, Princess of Wales is to go on show at her former home at Kensington Palace
(c) Historic Royal Palaces

The exhibition will feature garments from several beloved royals. 

Several of Princess Margret’s glamourous outfits from the 1960s and 1970s will feature in the Dress Codes exhibition
(c) Historic Royal Palaces

A stunning red embroidered Bruce Oldfield evening gown worn by Diana, Princess of Wales in 1987 will be included in Dress Codes, highlighting the need for royals to follow specific dress codes for diplomatic events. 

One of Queen Victoria’s bodices will be in the show (c) Historic Royal Palaces

The exhibition features a cashmere cape that belonged to Princess Alexandra, the future Queen Alexandra. The luxurious accessory dates back to 1870 and was created by Dieulafait & E Bouclier.

The floral print dress worn by a future queen and a princess will star in a new exhibition
(c) Historic Royal Palaces

One of the most notable items that will be on display is a childhood dress worn by Princess Elizabeth before her father took the throne. Made from a light floral Liberty London fabric, the dress will be displayed with Princess Margaret’s matching dress. These two dresses show the continual alterations and adjustments made by the royal family. 

Dress Codes also marks the first time that Dame Vivienne Westwood’s gown that she wore in 2006 to receive her DBE for services to fashion will go on display. HRP purchased they gown via auction earlier in 2024. 

About author

Historian and blogger at AnHistorianAboutTown.com