This weekend I joined my daughter, son-in-law, and
granddaughter for a trip. We drove 3 hours north to Delaware’s Winterthur. Our
purpose was to see the Downton Abby costume exhibit currently on display. The
exhibit was wonderful beyond words. I have always loved making period clothing and
costumes so this was a real treat. Upon entering the room was a large photo
banner of the building used as the Downton Abby façade. Many people, including ourselves, stood in
front of it to have our pictures taken.
The clothing was displayed on manikins usually in groups of
two to five items. A backdrop photo of the scene in which it was used was
shown. Story boards explaining the process in the design or making of the item
was displayed alongside. The insight to these garments is inspiring.
When the season’s script has been completed, the costume
department has 7 weeks in which to complete the entire wardrobe for the season.
I find this feat amazing. The department often finds fragments of lace, fabric,
etc. of the time period. Often a garment is made around the incorporation of
the fragment. The colors, textures, trims can convene without words an emotion
or mood of the scene. It is a science in its self. I cannot begin to pick a
favorite garment. I loved them all.
The exhibit continues thru January 15, 2015, see it if you
can.
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