In pictures: A Celebration of Bridal Gowns on now at Ely Cathedral
An exhibition showcasing more than 40 bridal gowns, highlighting the history and allure of the wedding dress, is on now at Ely Cathedral.
The exhibition, which around 2,000 people came to see in the first four days, explores how wedding styles and materials have changed over the centuries and how their adaptations reveal as much about social history as fashion, while defining one of the most memorable days in countless lives.
Many of the dresses on display have a personal story to tell, while others have featured in award-winning films such as the wedding outfit designed for Meryl Streep in 1985’s Out of Africa and the wedding dress worn by Emily Blunt in The Young Victoria (2009).
Other exhibits include replicas of the gowns worn by royal brides as well as the original ‘fitting gown’ designed for Princess Margaret’s 1960 wedding.
Jocelyn Palmer, events manager at the cathedral, said: “We have been delighted by the response to the exhibition and number of people who have come to see it in the first few days.
“We have had some great feedback from visitors, some have even been quite emotional as a direct result of seeing wedding dresses in styles people remember or can relate to, to the stories associated with them.”
In addition to the dresses, the exhibition also features a small selection of exquisitely embroidered bridal veils on loan from the collection at The Royal School of Needlework.
A Celebration of Bridal Gowns will be open daily in the Lady Chapel at Ely Cathedral until Sunday, 17 March.
Joss added: “It is fascinating to have bridal gowns from so many different eras all in one location.
“We have really enjoyed hearing all the stories and memories associated with many of these beautiful gowns which includes a gorgeous dress from the 1940s made by the bride herself from parachute silk due to wartime rationing.
“Other exhibits worth highlighting is a beautifully understated, but stunning, wedding gown designed by Coco Chanel from the 1920s – plus a few dresses which have featured in major film productions.”
Visit elycathedral.org.