Fashioned in Paper

Name: Fashioned in Paper
Start: 2027-04-24
End: 2027-10-03
Location: Hampton Court Palace

Historic dress reimagined

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When

24 April - 03 October 2027

Ticketing information

Included in palace admission. (Members go free, no pre-booking required)

Discover Fashioned in Paper, an extraordinary display by acclaimed artist Stephanie Smart at Hampton Court Palace.

Explore a selection of intricate paper garments, miniatures and shoes across the magnificent State Apartments. Crafted from paper and thread, each piece draws inspiration from the palace, historic fashion, treasures in the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection and the history of silk in Britain.

Bringing together contemporary art and traditional craft, Fashioned in Paper reveals a fascinating story of royal fashion and the skilled hands behind historic garments. Four years in the making, the remarkable display offers a unique and unmissable way to experience Hampton Court Palace and its history.

Explore royal fashion from skilled craftspeople

Stephanie’s work draws on traditional craft techniques, including skills now at risk of being lost, to recreate the textures and decorative details of historic textiles in paper.

Created in collaboration with volunteers, curators, specialist makers and the Royal School of Needlework, the display celebrates the many skilled hands behind extraordinary clothes – past and present.

The Queen's State Apartments provide the perfect setting for these creations, with dresses inspired by Queen Mary II and Queen Anne offering a glimpse into their royal style and remarkable lives.

The mantua

See Stephanie's new masterpiece, inspired by 18th-centry court gowns from the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection and two of Hampton Court Palace’s greatest craftsmen – Jean Tijou and Grinling Gibbons.

This artwork reflects the crafts that inspired it, including silk, papermaking, woodwork, ironwork. Step up close to admire the intricate paper felting and quilling.

1860s Miniature

Inspired by 18th-century pandora dolls, this stunning miniature dress is just 70cm tall, but showcases remarkable craftsmanship. Admire intricate bobbin lace that took 12 months to make, paper quilling, and inkle loom braid.

Fashion Women

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Discover the grandeur of the Georgian royal court and follow in the footsteps of queens and kings in the rooms where they lived and entertained guests.

Dates:
Open
Location: Hampton Court Palace
Ticket type: Included in palace admission (Members go free)

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