The two 1920s era flapper wedding gowns from Downton Abbey are now on display at the FIDM gallery in Los Angeles. They are part of a larger exhibit on television costumes from various current shows, but we found the Downton Abbey costumes to be the most interesting.
This exhibit is an opportunity to settle once and for all, which wedding gown is the best. We could take a really close look, since the gowns are only a few feet away. It was great to see the soft hip drape, flowing drapery and subtle decorative details we could barely take in when they were worn during the last season as designed by costumer Caroline McCall. The two other gowns shown in this photo are also on display, along with many others worn by various characters in this series.
Seeing these flapper styles got us hungry for more, and to our delight, the adjacent historical gallery is currently showing part of the Helen Larson collection, and features a group of amazing 1920s beaded chemise evening gowns.
The dresses shown here are the real thing (not costumes), with a few Chanel designs to validate the set. Included in the full outfits shown on display forms are seamed stockings and exquisite leather shoes. This little gem of an exhibit is one of the best costume shows up now in southern California. It's something any vintage fashion junkie should not miss. You'll find this gallery hidden down a hall off to the side from the television costume show.
the DETAILS:
What: “The Outstanding Art of Television Costume Design”, 120+ costumes from more than 15 television shows from the current season
Also Featuring: Behind the Candelabra, Game of Thrones, Girls, House of Cards, Nashville, Scandal, Parks and Recreation.
Beaded Dressess: Gatsby’s Women: 1920s Evening Dress from The Helen Larson Historic Fashion Collection
Where: Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) Museum & Galleries, Los Angeles
When: 10am–5pm, Tuesday through Saturday, through October 19, 2013, admission is free
PS: When you are there, be sure to visit the FIDM outlet store that carries donated fabric, accessories and fashions. We found some great pieces of fabric there to use later in some sewing projects.