Kathleen Lynagh's visit to the Winterthur Museum for the Costumes of Downton Abbey exhibit provided an exceptional opportunity to explore the intersection of fashion, history, and art. This special exhibit, hosted at Winterthur in 2014, featured costumes from the beloved television series Downton Abbey, highlighting the intricate designs that captured the essence of Edwardian-era fashion. Lynagh, a jewelry designer herself, enjoyed taking her own photographs of the exquisite jewelry and costumes, gaining insight into how these pieces contributed to the visual storytelling of the period drama. Her appreciation for the craftsmanship and historical accuracy of both the clothing and accessories aligned with her passion for custom jewelry design.

The exhibit showcased over 40 costumes worn by key characters in the series, blending luxury and historical precision with storytelling. From elegant evening gowns to servant uniforms, the exhibit demonstrated the class distinctions and evolving fashion trends of early 20th-century Britain. For Lynagh, the jewelry on display—necklaces, tiaras, and brooches—served as a rich source of inspiration. Her photographs of the pieces underscored the attention to detail that went into creating replicas and period-appropriate accessories for the show. This experience allowed her to connect with the artistry of historical fashion while considering how similar techniques could be applied in her custom jewelry designs.

Costumes of Downton Abbey exhibit at Winterthur. The costume designer for this season was Caroline McCall.

Jewelry for this project was designed and made by Andrew Prince. All images taken by the Author: Kathleen Lynagh