My ‘Royal’ Trip to Kensington Palace with Walpole

You all know how much I love getting out and about, attending events and meeting new people. In September, I was fortunate enough to be invited to a private viewing at Kensington Palace. Not only was it incredible to be in a venue as grand as this but I also got to see the newest exhibition which showcased Diana’s wedding dress!

Royal style in the making

Housed in the newly-conserved Orangery, the exhibition is only temporary so I was super excited to be invited down. It explores the relationship between fashion designers and their royal clients and showcases the process behind some of the most magnificent masterpieces in royal fashion history. 

Think glittering gowns, never-seen-before creations and stylish tailoring - as well as one showstopping piece that really impressed… 

Designing for Diana

One display featured the wedding dress of Diana, Princess of Wales. It’s the first time that this amazing design has been on show in the Palace for 25 years. Next to it lay the incredible sequin-encrusted train, which at 25 feet long is the longest veil in royal history. 

Royal fashion has always been an interest of mine, and this piece will forever remain in my mind. It features a fitted bodice, antique lace and puffed sleeves accessorised with bows and ruffles. The skirt has been enhanced with bundles of stiff petticoats to give an everlasting and dramatic appeal. I think I may even have some inspiration for my next headpiece… 

It was an honour to be invited to this very special exhibition and I look forward to attending other events in 2022. For now though, I’m back at my shop in London’s Oxo Tower getting ready for the busy festive season. If you’re close by, why not pop in and have a chat? Alternatively, you can catch me at katherine@katherineelizabethhats.com !

Katherine Elizabeth x