QUEEN ELIZABETH II: HER LIFE IN STYLE
An Exhibition Review By Andrew Lannerd
To mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Queen Elizabeth II (1926–2022), the Royal Collection Trust has curated a landmark exhibition at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace. Titled Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, the showcase offers an intimate look at the wardrobe and accessories that defined the late monarch’s reign. More than a fashion retrospective, it is a cultural tribute to a queen whose elegance and symbolism shaped the modern monarchy.
Demand Beyond Expectation
From the moment tickets were released, interest in the exhibition soared worldwide. Despite running until October 2026, almost every ticket has already sold out. This unprecedented demand underscores the enduring fascination with Queen Elizabeth II’s life and legacy. For those of us fortunate enough to attend, sharing images and impressions has become essential in ensuring the exhibition’s spirit reaches a global audience.
Iconic Ensembles on Display
Among the hundreds of garments, hats, handbags, and shoes, several pieces stand out as defining moments in royal history:
The Wedding Dress – Worn by Princess Elizabeth in 1947, this gown symbolized post‑war optimism and remains one of the most celebrated bridal designs of the 20th century.
The Coronation Gown – Crafted for Westminster Abbey in 1953, the gown embodies regal grandeur, embroidered with emblems representing the Commonwealth.
Country Attire – Beyond ceremonial outfits, the exhibition highlights personal items reflecting the Queen’s love of the countryside, from tailored tweeds to practical footwear.
These ensembles illustrate not only her impeccable taste but also her ability to use fashion as a tool of diplomacy and identity.
Jewels and Accessories
No royal wardrobe would be complete without jewels. The exhibition features dazzling tiaras, brooches, and necklaces, alongside handbags and gloves that became part of her signature look. Each accessory tells a story—whether of state occasions, personal milestones, or the Queen’s enduring commitment to tradition.
Fashion as Diplomacy
Queen Elizabeth II’s style was never merely aesthetic. Her clothing choices often carried symbolic weight, reinforcing ties with nations across the Commonwealth. From fabrics sourced internationally to motifs representing unity, her wardrobe became a subtle yet powerful diplomatic language. This exhibition reminds us that fashion, in her hands, was a tool of connection and continuity.
A Lasting Tribute
Ultimately, Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style is more than a display of clothing. It is a heartfelt homage to a monarch who embodied grace, duty, and resilience. For visitors, the exhibition offers a rare chance to step into the Queen’s world, experiencing the garments that accompanied her through decades of public service. For those unable to attend, the stories and images shared by attendees ensure her legacy continues to inspire.
Conclusion
The sold‑out exhibition at Buckingham Palace is a testament to Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring influence. Her wardrobe was not just fashion—it was history woven into fabric, jewels, and accessories. As the world reflects on her centenary, this showcase reminds us of the queen’s remarkable ability to blend tradition with modernity, leaving behind a legacy of style that will be studied and celebrated for generations.
The exhibition is wonderful tribute to a remarkable icon and a greatly missed queen.
-Andrew Lannerd
The exhibition may be sold out, but the Royal Collection Trust has published a stunning catalogue. More information at: https://www.royalcollectionshop.co.uk/queen-elizabeth-ii-fashion-and-style.html (Also available worldwide on Amazon)
Image Gallery:
Images courtesy of Andrew Lannerd
Copyright Royal Collection Trust: His Majesty King Charles III