Love Downton Abbey? Then you’ll love the Biltmore these days

The Story

Through May, the estate of the famed Vanderbilts will exhibit “Dressing Downton,” 47 mannequins wearing notable costumes from the beloved PBS series about an aristocratic English family. The mannequins are set in rooms through the mansion.

The Matriarch

See the rich purple gown worn by Dowager Countess Violet, played by Maggie Smith.

The Lord and Lady

Earl of Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) and his wife, Countess Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), ready for a garden party, perhaps?

The Sisters

You can tell the most about the changing times by what the three daughters would wear each season.

The Help

The maids and servants put the down in Downton.

The War

The show takes place during and after WWI.

The details

“Dressing Downton” is included in the regular Biltmore admission: $49; $24.50 for ages 10-16. For an extra $17, see a 60-minute behind-the-scenes guided “Upstairs-Downstairs Tour.”

Photo: Jeff Willhelm / Charlotte Observer

This story was originally published February 11, 2015 at 1:03 AM with the headline "Love Downton Abbey? Then you’ll love the Biltmore these days."