Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style
Discover the landmark exhibition "Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style," held at Buckingham Palace, showcasing a century of royal elegance and British fashion. This cultural event, running from April 10 to October 18, 2026, at The King’s Gallery, honors what would have been the late Queen's 100th birthday.
Exhibition Overview
The display features around 200 garments and accessories, many unveiled for the first time, offering an intimate view of the evolution of Queen Elizabeth II’s wardrobe. It presents a visual journey through ten decades, from childhood outfits to stunning gowns worn during her reign.
Fashion as Storytelling
Each piece reflects stories of duty, diplomacy, and personal expression, illustrating how the Queen used fashion as both art and a symbol of her role.
Curatorial Insights
Curated by Caroline de Guitaut, the exhibition includes unseen design sketches, fabric samples, and handwritten notes. These elements reveal the close collaboration between the Queen and her couturiers.
Featured Highlights
- One of the earliest surviving couture pieces: a silver lamé bridesmaid dress by Edward Molyneux, crafted for the 1934 wedding of the Duke of Kent.
"Queen Elizabeth II used clothing as both art and symbol." — Exhibition Curator Caroline de Guitaut
Author’s summary: This exhibition offers an exclusive insight into Queen Elizabeth II’s iconic style, highlighting her lifelong relationship with fashion as a form of identity and diplomacy.