Princesses of Kensington Palace

"The Enchanted Palace" exhibit at Kensington palace brings the seven of the princesses who inhabited the palace to life. This was done was by asking a number of notable British designers to contribute dresses fit for a princess.

Dame Vivienne Westwood

The "Dancing Princess" gown features three quarter length sleeves and a fairly full skirt evoking a classic hourglass shape. Made entirely of lace, the dress is even more glamorous when paired with red ballet slippers and the authentic tiara of Princess Margret.

The second dress is featured in the Great Hall which was painted by William Kent in 1727. This gown, also by Westwood, is called "A Dress for flying into the arms of Love and Death". Confectioners sugar layers of fabric contribute to the idea of motion.

Bruce Oldfield



"The Dress of Reflection" is in the Room of Sorrows. It is a fashion interpretation of the depression princesses felt when they had to act according to their duty rather than their heart. The sweetheart neckline and half off the shoulders provides a romantic wedding dress aesthetic which is emphasized by the sweeping train.