Costume from the Classics
Last Friday I went to see Cannon Hall’s blockbuster summer exhibition titled Costume from the Classics. It features a number of Hollywood film and TV costumes, with each outfit having a link to a great book. The exhibition is inspired by John Spencer’s library at Cannon Hall, after a recent project allowing the cleaning of the books. The exhibition is provided by CosProp, one of the world’s leading costume providers for the film, TV and theatre industries. The hall really suits this type of exhibition, you travel from room to room and see fabulous costumes in different settings.
Highlights from the exhibition included:
Silk and Linen Jacket and Skirt worn by the Hollywood legend Bette Davis as Marie Van Schuyler in Death on the Nile, 1978. Based on the book Death on the Nile, 1937 by Agatha Christie. Both Bette Davis and Agatha Christie are icons in my eyes so getting to see an outfit worn by Bette Davis was very exciting. As a reader I can recommend two great books on the actress, Miss D and Me: Life with the Invincible Bette Davis by Danelle Morton. Me and Jezebel: When Bette Davis Came for Dinner--and Stayed by Elizabeth Fuller.
Gown worn by Keira Knightley as Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, in The Duchess, 2008. Based on the book Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire,1998 by Amanda Foreman. In her biography of Georgiana, Foreman tells the story of Georgiana Spencer, who became Duchess of Devonshire on her marriage to the Duke in 1774. I am fascinated by Chatsworth House and the Devonshire family so it was great to see this beautiful duck egg blue costume, known as a ‘polonaise’ gown, meaning ‘Polish’ as it is inspired by the Polish national style of dress.
Bodice, Skirt and Robe worn by Alicia Vikander as Sophia Sadvoort in Tulip Fever, 2017. Based on the book Tulip Fever, 1999 by Deborah Moggach. I remember reading this book when it first came out and really enjoying it. It’s a historical novel set in 1630s Amsterdam, at a time when tulipmania gripped the population. The novel tells the story of a merchant, his wife Sophia and a flower painter.
Jacket, Waistcoat and Trousers worn by James Norton as John Brooke in Little Women in 2019. Based on the book Little Women from 1868 by Louisa May Alcott. One of the best-known novels of all time. This coming-of-age story follows four sisters growing up in rural 19th century New England. I enjoyed the 2019 film adaptation and James Norton is one of our best actors but if I am being honest as I young girl I loved the 1994 version. That version is a classic to me, seeing this exhibition makes me want to reread the books and rewatch the movies.