A host of beautiful creations from talent such as Angela Kelly, Ian Thomas and the great couturier Sir Norman Hartnell is on display. Arguably Hartnell’s best work for The Queen was his grand evening gowns and State occasion ensembles. His Coronation Dress - regarded as one of the most important examples of twentieth-century design by a British couturier- features duchesse satin, coloured silk thread, diamante pearls and a host of sequins and bugle beads. Hartnell started the task in 1952, submitting nine different designs, of which The Queen chose the eighth.
Fashioning a Reign
Hand-crafted, luxury experiences curated by our team—speak to our concierge to learn more
27th July 2016
There’s no better setting for an unprecedented display of Her Majesty’s catalogue of outfits across the years than Buckingham Palace’s own State Rooms
The unique exhibition features garments spanning 90 years of The Queen’s life - from christening and Coronation gowns, to the wedding dress and a plethora of mesmerizing hats.
The exhibition at Buckingham Palace is one of three separate displays in celebration of The Queen’s 90th birthday at each of Her Majesty’s official residences during 2016. A total of 150 outfits will be shown across the Palaces, and the content of each exhibition has been selected to have particular association with the location: At the Palace of Holyroodhouse the use of tartan in royal dress is explored, while at Windsor Castle magnificent evening gowns worn on official occasions will be contrasted with Princess Elizabeth’s fancy-dress costumes from wartime family pantomimes held at the Castle. The exhibition at the State Rooms explores ceremonial and military attire, dress for State occasions and overseas tours, outfits for family celebrations, and Her Majesty’s support of British design.
The Queen is well known for her use of block-colour dressing, using bright, bold colours to ensure she is easily visible on important occasions. A variety of these exquisite creations that Her Majesty wore across the years can be seen on display at the Palace. One example of this is the blue John Anderson dress (right) and jacket with the straw and silk Philip Somerville hat. The Queen wore this on 4 August 2000 for The Queen Mother’s 100th birthday celebration at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
The Queen’s choice of milliners was influenced by her grandmother, Queen Mary, and her mother, Queen Elizabeth. From them, Princess Elizabeth inherited the first milliners to work for her including Kate Day, Claude Saint-Cyr, Rudolph and Aage Thaarup. The Queen, however, created her own style. On display are hats from The Queen’s wardrobe dating from the 1940s to the 2000s designed by six milliners. Examples by milliners still working for The Queen today are on display in the Ballroom, including Angela Kelly and Rachel Trevor Morgan.
The three exhibitions Fashioning a Reign: 90 Years of Style from The Queen’s Wardrobe are at the Palace of Holyroodhouse until 16th October 2016, the Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace is now open until 2nd October 2016, and at Windsor Castle from 17th September 2016 to the 8th January 2017.
By Aimee Phillips
Share this Article
You Might Also Like
-
Breaking Down Some Of The Best Works At Frieze 2024
This year's iteration was a bold and diverse display of skill and opinion.
-
17 Best London Exhibitions: Art To See In 2024
As London’s vibrant art scene continues to evolve, 2024 promises an array of captivating exhibitions in London that can fascinate art enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
-
Reframing The Art World With Jay Rutland
Jay Rutland, Maddox Gallery’s Creative Director, has showcased emerging artistic talent alongside blue-chip investment artwork since the gallery’s inception. here, he discusses his passion for collecting, and what lies at the heart of Maddox.
-
Venice Biennale 2024: The Lowdown
As the 60th International Art Exhibition opens in the famed Italian city this weekend. We discuss the theme of this year's show and the names to know.
-
Nine Things To Do In London This Easter
Easter in London is not just about chocolate eggs and the Easter Bunny. Its a time when the city bursts into the vibrant colors of spring and offers a basketful of activities for everyone.
-
Inside The Glitzy Allure Of The Oscars 2024
Held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, The Oscars (also known as the 9th Academy Awards), will be taking place, honouring a historic year of cinema.
-
Discover Cabanni: Luxury Leather Bags That Redefine Style and Functionality
In a world where bags are not merely accessories but statements of identity, Cabanni stands out by crafting high-quality, luxury leather bags that combine timeless style with practical elegance.
-
Women Who Launch: Pepa Gonzàlez, Founder and Creative Director of Pepa London
Kate Middleton’s impeccable style has been admired and emulated the world over. But in recent years, it’s the youngest members of the Cambridge clan who have been stealing the limelight for their sophisticated yet age-appropriate fashion choices.
-
Bags To Go: The Weekend Carry-Alls For Your Next Getaway
Get ready to pack your bags and hit the road with our picks for the ultimate weekend companions.
-
Londons Most Luxurious Shopping Destinations
London is a top destination for luxury shopping, featuring a variety of high-end areas that cater to fashion lovers and luxury enthusiasts from all over the world.
-
Women Who Launch: Jen Fuller from Etta Loves
It’s not often that the idea for your next big venture comes from the smallest of business consultants.
-
Top Advent Calendars To Brighten Your Countdown To Christmas
As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of counting down to Christmas brings a special kind of joy.
