Blenheim Palace: A Passion for Fashion

I arrived back from hot Jamaica on Thursday – I’ve gone back to wearing polo necks (so no showing off the tan) as I’m too cold, plus with a 5-hour time difference and the Summer hour change – Tired?! Let’s put it this way, I can’t wait for my next lie in!

Instagram @Lovedbylizzi – Montego Bay, Jamaica

My bikini was a hit, I can really recommend it now that I have tested it properly – the bikini top especially was really great – supportive even without using the ties and I found halter-neck was my preferred way to wear it.

Sunday, for Mother’s Day (and for her forthcoming birthday), I took my mother to visit the Palace at Woodstock, Blenheim Palace. What was even more of a treat for us both the palace had collaborated with the House of Dior and pulled together a historical fashion exhibition, “A Passion for Fashion“. And whilst it was only a small exhibit, it worked so well amongst the State rooms.

My favourite was the Long Library which held the original 1954 fashion show in aid of the Red Cross to which Princess Margaret was the guest of honour.

Fashion and history go hand in hand, and this exhibit was one of the better selections of historical clothing I’ve seen. Mum and I were surprised to learn that both ladies and gentlemen took fashion so seriously, mainly governed by what the French were doing, that they were truly prepared TO DIE FOR FASHION! – Arsenic was poisoning our Ladies so that they could have bright green dresses, men and women chose to wear make-up that contained lead to ensure they had very light pale skin, it was quite ridiculous what they were prepared to do to ensure they looked the best.

I only took a few pics, and anyway you need to go see for yourself – the exhibit is on until 24th April and with your ticket you get full access to the Palace, their gardens which were simple yet very beautiful, plus full access to view the lake and surrounding parkland. It’s well worth a visit if you’ve not been before.

Instagram: @Lovedbylizzi

WHAT I WORE

The day before I went on a little shopping trip, here’s one of two garments I purchased at the Hush concession in John Lewis – it’s only another jumpsuit! As soon as I put this on, I fell in love – lots of compliments too from hubby and I know within only a few weeks I will have ticked the value for money box, without a doubt.

I teamed this up with my black pumps from River Island and a khaki cross-over bag from Oasis – and here I am next to one of the gorgeous 1950’s Dior dresses.