VICTORIA & ABDUL 

Darlings I love a good costume drama and  Victoria & Abdul is just that. Victoria & Abdul is the latest film from acclaimed British filmmaker Stephen Frears. Starring Judi Dench, Ali Fazal, and Eddie Izzard, it unlocks the true but hidden story of the titular characters . One being the second-longest reigning British monarch, and the other an Indian servant. Despite the different cultures, Victoria warms to Abdul. Hence promoting him from visitor to Munchy, a Muslim spiritual advisor who teaches her the ways of his religion and his life in India. For Abdul, he is able to elevate himself through pure generosity and kindness. Together, they make quite a pair, much to the chagrin of those around them

VICTORIA & ABDUL ; THE COSTUMES

Within the summary of the film lies the content of this post . Queen Victoria died in 1901, but the influence of the age named after her lives on until today. Since Victoria and Abdul takes place during the last years of Victoria's life, we only get a glimpse into the Victorian age. 

Hence the costumes were designed by the Oscar nominated costume designer Consolata Boyl. The costumes pay meticulous attention to historical detail even down to the Queen’s V&A monogrammed shoes. Formal and informal attire worn by Dame Judi can be seen. Including the black silk gown with gold front piece the Queen wears while waiting for Abdul's return . Amongst Ali Fazal’s costumes is the faithfully recreated scarlet and gold livery, complete with peacock blue striped silk turban.  Actually this was designed for the Queen’s Indian servants who waited at table in her new Indian inspired dining room.

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VICTORIA & ABDUL INSPIRES TODAY'S FASHION

From the year 1837 up until 1901, Queen Victoria reigned over England. During this period, the first photograph was taken, Charles Dickens reached the height of popularity, and wealthy women across the nation threw coming out parties, presenting themselves in stunning dresses with high collars and flouncing sleeves. At the same time  showing off some decolletage in an attempt to win an acceptable marriage proposal.  

VICTORIA & ABDUL: VICTORIAN INSPIRED 

Of course darlings you may already know that I am a fashion historian . Hence I also love the luxuriousness of the Victorian age. Therefore the extravagance of Victorian fashions might seem out of place in a time where athleisure and nonchalant style reigns supreme. However one to two centuries later, drama is definitely back on the agenda. The evidence? Simone Rocha, Valentino and Erdem all showed AW17 collections with elements of Victoriana. While Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Rodarte reference gothic romance in their designs season after season. Victoria & Abdul gives us all the chance to indulge in Victorian style, and it's  strong influence on today's fashion.

VICTORIA & ABDUL; VICTORIAN DETAILS

Victorian collars are high and lacy, both covering the neck while accentuating its shape.Moreover the Victorians believed it was either high collars, or no collars.Therefore this lead to some daring, dipping decolletage.Victorian gowns were often ruched here and there, fabrics gathered in expertly chosen spots to create the most exquisite gowns. This fabric gathering fad is back in modern fashion. The Victorian era was one of stuffy manners and puffy sleeves. 

The Victorian style in today's fashion is what gives these influenced clothes their exquisite details. In my opinion devil is in the details. Since we live in a world of disposable clothing , it's easy to forget what fabulously designed clothing is about.Therefore I have searched and found some great Victorian inspired garments. No doubt the holiday season is around the corner ,so find your special holiday outfit here.

SIMONE ROCHA

Black victorian style dress from Simone Rocha featuring a turtle neck, a flared skirt, a sheer lace overlay and puff sleeves .Farfetch $2140

McQUEEN

McQueen's ruff collar and balloon sleeves elevate this Victorian-style shirt. Ruff collar; Balloon bracelet sleeves.Saks Fifth Avenue $1230

ALESSANDRA RICH

Alessandra Rich creates a quintessential dress for dinner parties and afternoon trips to the market. First this dress features Victorian style bishop sleeves. Second is the lace trim. Farfetch $2310

ERDEM

Erdem  a dose of glamor with flouncy hem and tapered waist, with Victorian sleeves and collar. In my opinion this is a great modern interpretation of Victorian to modern.

Saks 5th Ave $2095

DOLCE & GABBANA

Dolce & Gabbana are known for Sicilian glamour, iconic prints and fashion for the whole family. Hence this dress features a great example of a Victorian style collar and sleeves .Farfetch $3775

RED VALENTINO

The sheer tulle layer on RED Valentino's dress is defined with swiss dots and embroidered humming birds. Nipped in at the waist with a brilliant blue velvet ribbon, the circular cap sleeves lend a romantic Victorian appeal.In my opinion the details make this dress elegant and unique. StyleBop $809

HORROR VACUI

Horror Vacui believes in taking Victorian-esque nightwear and giving it a breath of modern air. Romantic in every way with a scattered floral print, scalloped edges and a handkerchief hem, this Egyptian cotton dress is made for anywhere but the bedroom. StlyeBop $735

ALESSANDRA RICH

Entirely sheer, this sensual lace-tulle gown from Alessandra Rich is elevated with ruffled tiers that lend volume and romance. The puffed-up sleeves and higher neckline reference Victorian-inspired roots - style with the teal blue velvet underwear set for the most impact - the longline bra and high-rise panties will flatter any figure. StyleBop $4180

CECILIE BAHNSEN

Cecilie Bahnsen Black Eleanor Dress. No doubt this dress has a Victorian style collar and sleeves, bringing a period style to this modern youthful look. Ssense $1700

SOLACE

Black wide V-neck Victorian gown from Solace. Moreover this gown exposes the decolletage , the other big Victorian neckline Farfetch $458

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG

This understated slip gown is cut on the bias in a silk blend with velvet devoré dot pattern in deep violet and black. Similarly this gown has the deep Victorian neckline and skirt. Farfetch $698

ROCHAS

Pink tulle detail gown from Rochas. In my opinion this is Victorian/Edwardian gown with the neck and skirt.

VICTORIA & ABDUL IN CONCLUSION

In conclusion, I am  drawn to motion pictures and their impact on the fashion world. Therefore it is a treat for a fashion-lover like myself to relish great costume design. Victoria & Abdul is a great period costume piece. While looking at fashion history, I am always drawn to the impact that other historical periods have on today.

Arguably the Victorian and Gothic period is partially romantic and partially extravagant. In fact the costumes in Victoria and Abdul  illustrate this perfectly .Therefore I chose a selection of clothes that show the influence of the Victorian fashion on the fashion of today . I encourage you to select some of these great outfits for your wardrobe . Darlings please leave comments on this post enjoy. Ciao for now Jandrew