Queen Elizabeth II was a globally recognized style icon, and the latest episode of the Daily Mail’s Palace Confidential delves into the secrets of her distinctive fashion sense.

Early Influences and Practicality

The Queen’s style evolved over time, shaped by trusted advisors. In her youth, her outfits were practical, reflecting her service as a mechanic during WWII. Her early looks often mirrored those of her sister, Princess Margaret, creating a youthful appearance.

Fashion as a Purposeful Tool

The Queen’s fashion wasn’t about personal indulgence; it was purposeful. She favored tweed and tartan for rural engagements and bright colors when connecting with the public, demonstrating a keen understanding of iconography. She understood the symbolic power of her attire, even if she wasn’t obsessed with fashion like her sister.

A Historic Wedding Dress

Her wedding dress in 1947, adorned with 10,000 seed pearls, marked an early moment of fashion immortality. The silk was acquired using war coupons, with many brides offering theirs to contribute to a more extravagant gown, though this was ultimately deemed illegal. The dress was crafted from silk woven in Britain from Chinese silkworms, avoiding materials from wartime enemies.

The Impact of Angela Kelly

A significant turning point in the Queen’s style came with the appointment of Angela Kelly as her dresser in 1994. Kelly played a pivotal role in amplifying the Queen’s use of color and subtly pushing boundaries, developing a close, sisterly relationship built on implicit trust.

The Queen, known for her cautious nature, allowed Kelly a degree of creative freedom, resulting in bolder and more vibrant ensembles. Throughout her reign, the Queen favored classic, re-wearable pieces from designers she’d favored since the 1950s, though her color choices became increasingly vibrant.

A Preference for Certain Hues

Interestingly, despite purple being historically associated with royalty, the Queen reportedly disliked the color, preferring shades of blue, pink, and lilac. Her signature style continues to influence fashion trends today, with echoes of her iconic looks appearing on the high street.

The episode explores not only the evolution of her wardrobe but also the deeper meaning behind her choices, revealing a monarch who used fashion as a tool for communication and connection with her people. The discussion also touches upon the Queen’s relationship with Meghan Markle, with sources indicating initial warmth followed by concerns.