The passing of Queen Elizabeth II not only marks the end of an era for the British monarchy, but it also signifies a shift in the relationship between fashion and the royal family. As younger members of the family step into the limelight, particularly Catherine, Princess of Wales, a new fashion era is set to unfold. Queen Elizabeth II had a distinct fashion formula that became her signature style. Her elegant coats, trim hats, square-heeled shoes, and iconic handbag created a familiar silhouette and symbolized stability.
Alicia Healey, who worked in the Queen’s household and wrote a book titled “Wardrobe Wisdom from a Royal Lady’s Maid: how to dress and take care of your clothes,” explained that the Queen understood the power of style in conveying her image as a monarch. For her, clothing was almost like a uniform. However, with the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, all eyes will inevitably be on the new monarch, King Charles III, and his wife Queen Consort Camilla, who are both in their seventies. While they will undoubtedly make their mark on the fashion scene, it is the younger generation of royals who are expected to attract more attention.
Prince William and Prince Harry, along with their wives, are set to take on more prominent public roles. This shift in focus could bring about a change in how the royal family is associated with fashion. The younger generation may embrace more relatable and restrained styles, moving away from the formal structures of the past. With Prince Harry and Meghan now based in California, all eyes will be on Kate, also known as Catherine, the wife of Prince William. She is likely to draw comparisons to William’s late mother, Princess Diana, during her time as Princess of Wales.
Suzy Menkes, a fashion critic and historian, pointed out that people are more interested in younger members of the family and their fashion choices because they can relate to them. Kate’s style has already proven to have a significant impact, often sparking buying frenzies and causing outfits to sell out. When she dresses up, it generates excitement among fashion enthusiasts.
However, Kate’s fashion choices may need to align with King Charles’ sustainability messaging. The future king promotes conscientious fashion and emphasizes the importance of purchasing quality items that will last. This approach aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainable fashion and mindful consumption. Jennifer Castro, a digital marketer and author of the fashion blog RoyalStyleWatch, noted that Charles has had the same camel coat for 25 years, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable fashion.
One iconic aspect of Queen Elizabeth II’s fashion legacy is her long-standing relationship with British handbag brand Launer. Over the years, she ordered around a dozen handbags, sticking to only a handful of models. The Launer handbags were considered a staple in her wardrobe and became synonymous with her style. Gerald Bodmer, the owner of Launer, estimates that the Queen has been purchasing their handbags since the 1950s and 60s. One particular handbag she carried at William and Kate’s wedding in 2011, called the Lisa, caused a frenzy of interest and even crashed the company’s website.
Queen Elizabeth II’s fashion choices were revered for consistently striking the right tone. Elizabeth Holmes, author of ‘HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style,’ praised the Queen’s ability to harness the power of clothes to promote the monarchy and fulfill her royal duties. Throughout her reign, the Queen’s wardrobe was always appropriate and consistent, never missing the mark.
As the British monarchy enters a new era, the younger generation of royals will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the fashion narrative. With Kate’s relatable style and King Charles’ sustainability message, a balance between glamour and conscientious fashion is expected to emerge. The fashion mantle of the British monarchy has officially been passed to the younger generation, and the world eagerly awaits their sartorial choices and the impact they will have on the fashion industry.
Useful Links:
1. Vogue: Kate Middleton Style File
2. Vogue: Prince Charles and Sustainable Fashion
