What a day! Our Medieval Fashion Show was a huge success and everyone had a blast (from the past). Tanya Bentham, a world-renowned medieval embroidery specialist, made the costumes and kindly took on the role of compère, discussing each outfit in turn and explaining the intricacies of the medieval wardrobe, including the colours, fabrics, and styles that were popular during this period. She made the whole event an utter joy, unveiling fascinating insights and debunking common misconceptions about medieval fashion, including the burning question: did medieval people wear underwear?*
The show was part of our wider focus on the medieval period, which has included talks on herbal remedies, making pomanders with younger visitors, displays exploring how we used to live, and a dedicated exhibition featuring Tanya’s wonderful embroidery work.
We are so grateful that the local community came together to put on this incredible show. Members of Ilkley Playhouse and the Bromleys from Burnt Orchid (who so carefully restored Ilkley Manor House’s outside lantern) bravely volunteered to model alongside our stalwart Ilkley Manor House volunteers.
Our medieval focus, including the exhibition of Tanya’s embroidery, continues every weekend throughout May and June 2023 and you can enjoy the Medieval Garden, recently opened by Alan Titchmarsh, every day of the week.
Photos by Laura Mate: lauramate.com
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