The Royal School of Needlework (RSN) will be giving a rare insight to its archived textile collection. Normally kept behind the scenes at its school in Hampton Court Palace, the pieces offer an unparalleled source of history and inspiration.

On 17th May, 21st June and 6th July, there will be a series of themed RSN Collection Study Days presented by Dr Clare Rose, who is an international expert in the history of fashion. Dr Rose is the Senior Lecturer in Contextual Studies on the RSN Degree Course and also lectures on the History of Fashion at the Victoria & Albert Museum.

The topics will be Embroidery & Embellishment in Fashion (17th May and 6th July) and Underwear (21st June). Each Study Day will include an introductory lecture and sessions examining selected examples from the Collection at close quarters. There will be ample opportunity for discussion and for sharing information on textiles research and collections with Clare Rose. Participants may also bring items from their personal collections for identification, however the RSN are not able to provide valuations.

The May and July Study Days will showcase the versatility of embroidery and embellishment in fashion, including a panel from a 1740s gown; men's waistcoats from the 1770s to the 1840s; fine 1750s Dresden work, sleeve ruffles and Ayrshire work pelerine collars from the 1830s; Edwardian 'lingerie' blouses and embroidered accessories such as purses and slippers.

The June Study Day will focus on the role of Underwear and examine how it changed to suit fashions through time. Often embellished with lace edging, embroidered monograms and decorative insertions, underwear formed a very important part of the fashionable lady's wardrobe.

Each class costs £45 and runs from 10.30am – 3pm at Hampton Court Palace. To book call Natalie Thew on +44 (0)20 3166 6939, or email natalie.threw@royal-needlework.org.uk or visit royal-needlework.org.uk.

The RSN Archive Collection comprises some 60,000 specialist objects, papers, books and a wide range of embroidery. Selections from the Collection are showcased in temporary exhibitions at the RSN – the current exhibition, Stories in Stitch, features 17th century pieces of Stumpwork.

Posted: 28 March 2017

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