When the partnership between designer and royal client is successful, it creates style that is unforgettable. Walpole member Garrard is excited to be a part of such a special and unique insight into the rarefied world of atelier and accessories. ‘Royal Style in the Making’ features items from the archives of some of the most celebrated royal couturiers of the 20th century, created for three generations of royal women – showcasing how brands, like Garrard, marry tradition and innovation when it comes to luxury design.
Throughout its history, Garrard has had the honour of working closely with the Royal Family. The first royal commission was given by Frederick, Prince of Wales in 1735. Garrard was appointed Crown Jeweller by Queen Victoria in 1843, and has served every subsequent British monarch.
Visitors to this new exhibition will be able to experience all-things-atelier that made Diana, Princess of Wales’ engagement and wedding moments so unforgettable. To bring the story to life, a Garrard gouache painting of her sapphire and diamond engagement ring will be displayed. Paintings like this are traditionally a part of the Garrard design making process. The Princess chose her sapphire engagement ring from Garrard in 1981. Encircled by a halo of diamonds set in 18 carat white gold, the intense blue colour of the 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire is truly magnificent – displaying the exquisite taste for which she became so famous during her life as a royal. Within just a few days of Lady Diana Spencer’s engagement to the Prince of Wales, her choice of ring would be known the world over.
The heritage of this iconic ring design continues to inform the creation of Garrard jewels today. Visitors will also get the chance to see Diana, Princess of Wales’s wedding dress, which will be exhibited for the very first time at Kensington Palace in 25 years – complete with its spectacular 25 ft sequin encrusted train.
“Our partnership with Historic Royal Palaces allows visitors to learn of our incredible royal heritage, and further, showcase the ways in which our royal commissions and traditional artisanship continue to innovate designs today. The creative process behind our designs is to craft pieces that are inspired, versatile and exciting to wear – now and forever.”
Sara Prentice, Creative Director of Garrard.
