Visions of Vogue

Designed For Drama: Fashion from the Classics Exhibit

Biltmore Winter Garden in Asheville, North Carolina.

Matt and I were in California over the weekend for my little sister’s wedding! It turned out SO well and I was so honored to be her MOH. Seriously, still swooning over all the flowers – I posted a few on Instagram if you missed them! So, to the theme of fresh starts, I’m starting off this week with something different than the usual!

When we were in Asheville last weekend, one of the things I had been looking forward to most was visiting the Biltmore House. I’ll be doing a full travel guide later this week so stay tuned for that. But first, I wanted to talk about the gorgeous Designed for Drama: Fashion from the Classics exhibit. It just happened to be going on during our trip and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. I’ll be the first to admit history isn’t my thing. I mean really isn’t my thing. However, the history of fashion? That’s a totally different ball game.

We had no idea what to expect before arriving. We got there early on Sunday morning and were immediately swooning over the grounds. Not to mention the estate itself! We walked inside and immediately were met with these gorgeous displays in every room, the first of which was the winter garden (seen above). The entire exhibit was inspired by George Vanderbilt’s (the owner) love of literature. I have to say, the guy had great taste.

There were over 40 of these mini displays (seen below) throughout the house. Each was inspired by the costumes from an award winning movie like Pride and Prejudice (one of my faves!), Anna Karenina, and Sleepy Hollow. How fitting since the Oscars were last night, right? Everything was so stunning! All of the fashion was in period and it definitely made the exhibit so much more entertaining than a regular museum. We had just visited the Field Museum so I have that for a point of reference. You can read a few more details here.

The exhibit is set up so you are guided through at least 40 rooms in the house. There is an audio tour available if you want too! You get to see various bedrooms, dining rooms, and my favorite was the kitchen! The views out the back of the hills were just too pretty. I would never get tired of looking at that! You could totally feel all the history in the house as well. All the decor and design was impeccable!

All in all, if you’re planning a trip to Asheville anytime soon, make sure to visit this exhibit! It continues to July so there is plenty of time. I bet the estate is even more gorgeous in spring too so go and make a day of it! As I mentioned, I’ll be sharing a few more photos on Thursday so be on the lookout!

Fashion from the classic movies designed at the Biltmore Residence.

Dining Hall at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC.

Early 1900s fashion inspired by Hollywood movies.

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  13. Oh my goodness this place is just stunning! I’m really dying to visit now, because I love classic movies and it would be such a thrill to see an entire house filled with such gorgeous pieces and fashion history! Such a neat experience!

    Stephanie // SheSawStyle.com

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  15. I grew up near Asheville and the Biltmore House is such a treasure! Glad you had fun :)

    xo, Kristina

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