Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians

Our exciting exhibition explores what the Georgians wore, from the practical dress of laundry maids to the glittering gowns worn at court.
Discover what fashion can tell us about life in the 18th century, a revolutionary period of trade, travel and technology which fuelled fashion trends across all levels of society. Delve into the Georgians’ style story and get up close to magnificent paintings, prints and drawings by artists including Gainsborough, Zoffany and Hogarth, as well as luxurious textiles, sparkling jewellery, and a range of accessories from snuff boxes to swords.
Exhibition trailer ©
Exhibition Highlights
Thomas Gainsborough (1727-88)
Queen Charlotte (1744-1818)
BATMC I.09.1406 to 8
Court dress
Thomas Gainsborough (1727-88)
Johann Christian Fischer (1733-1800)
BATMC II.24.9
Men’s Court Suit
William Hogarth (1697-1764)
David Garrick with his Wife Eva-Maria Veigel
Thomas Rowlandson (1757-1827)
New-Invented Elastic Breeches.
Attributed to British School, 18th century
St James's Park and the Mall
Attributed to the studio of François-Hubert Drouais (1727-75)
Madame de Pompadour (1722-64)
Events and activities
Map & directions
By train
London Victoria. Visit National Rail Enquiries for times and fares.
By underground
Victoria, Green Park, St. James's Park and Hyde Park Corner. For further information visit the Transport for London website.
By coach / bus
Bus numbers 11, 211, C1 and C10 stop on Buckingham Palace Road. Victoria Coach Station is a 10-minute walk from the Palace. For further information visit the Transport for London website.