How Queen Elizabeth remains a fashion icon – even at 94 years old
From her signature black handbag and shoes, her majesty has projected an image of class and continuity, but has that always been the case?
At 94 years old Queen Elizabeth has been counselled by 14 British prime ministers, met 13 US presidents and is the longest serving UK monarch in history. And having reigned so far for more than 68 years, she has seen a lot of fashion trends come and go.
From breaking with tradition to sticking with her famous black Launer bag, Queen Elizabeth is considered to be a fashion icon that has stood the test of time. Resilient, classic and bold, the monarch has become a trendsetter in her own right. Whether it’s bright colours, high-waisted skirts or dazzling evening gowns, her majesty has covered them all. And we have the proof …
Colourful, clean and classic
The queen’s monochromatic coats, hats, gloves, pearl necklace and glitzy brooches have become her fashion signature. Caroline de Guitaut, curator of exhibitions of the queen’s clothing, told Vogue the monarch “transcends fashion but her clothes continue to reflect it”.
The bold colours ensure the queen stands out in a crowd while the clean and simple cuts produce a sense of familiarity and consistency. Any new additions have to go through royal dressmaker, Stewart Parvin, who helps decide on the fabrics, style, colour and cut with her majesty.
Adding flavour with those hats
From pillbox hats to wide-brimmed top hats and fascinators, the monarch switches from bold, floral to understated and sophisticated hats with the help of her milliner, Rachel Trevor-Morgan. Trevor-Morgan says she has to ensure the hats don’t cover the queen’s face, hinder movement and will remain set with varying weather conditions.