Fleurs de Villes: Cheekwood’s Latest Exhibit is a Must-See
Step into "The Gilded Age" as Cheekwood and Fleurs de Villes fill the historic estate with breathtaking floral couture. Image: Fleurs de Villes
Old-world New York meets new Nashville blooms at Cheekwood’s newest and most spectacular floral exhibition! On view now through August 9, the historic Nashville estate is hosting Fleurs de Villes THE GILDED AGE, an elaborate display inspired by HBO’s The Gilded Age — complete with sweeping floral gowns, beloved characters, and enough glamour to make even a casual garden stroll feel like a society affair. Wait until you see this eye candy!
Presented in partnership with HBO Max, the exhibition brings figures from the series to life through full-size mannequins dressed entirely in fashions made from fresh flowers and botanical materials. Roses become ruffled skirts, greenery creates sculptural sleeves, and delicate petals are layered into gowns that look surprisingly close to haute couture.
Show characters like Bertha Russell, Agnes van Rhijn, Marian Brook, and Peggy Scott appear throughout Cheekwood’s Botanic Hall, Frist Learning Center, and Historic Mansion & Museum, each interpreted by a Nashville-area floral designer.
Cheekwood itself could hardly be a more fitting backdrop. The stately mansion, manicured gardens, and elegant interiors echo the grand homes and social settings seen in the series. As the floral figures appear in hallways, galleries, and garden spaces, they feel less like temporary displays and more like guests who have arrived for the season.
Special programming adds even more to the experience, with floral designer talks throughout the week that reveal the inspiration and techniques behind the installations. On August 6, art and culture historian Elizabeth Block will also discuss her book, Gilded Age Fashion: More than 50 Iconic Looks and Stories Behind Them.
Select Cocktails in the Courtyard evenings on August 7 and 8 offer themed drinks, light bites, extended viewing hours, and the perfect excuse to don your best garden party dress.
Visitors can vote for their favorite creation for a chance to win a Gilded Age-inspired floral arrangement and a one-year Cheekwood membership.
Advance admission is required. Garden and mansion admission is $29 for adult non-members and complimentary for members, with after-hours admission priced at $16.
Thirteen local floral studios contributed to the exhibition: Flower Girls Floral Design, Rose Hill Flowers, Studio Izrada, Village Revival, LL Floral, Laurel & Leaf, By Gossamer, Abbj Design, T. Villager Designs, The Flower House, Florence Florals, Larson Floral Co., and LMA Designs.
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Anne Marie Hanna
An Ole Miss alum residing in Nashville, Anne Marie is passionate about telling the stories shaping the South. Outside of work, you’ll likely find her on a porch with a coffee and a good book, gardening, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.