The Fashion at Coronation: A Look Back at Iconic Outfits over the Decades
The Coronation ceremony is a momentous event in British history, and it’s no surprise that fashion has played a significant role in its celebration. From Queen Elizabeth II’s elegant white satin gown in 1953 to Princess Diana’s iconic wedding dress in 1981, the fashion at Coronation has never failed to impress us. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most memorable outfits throughout the decades.
The 1950s – An Age of Elegance
Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in 1953 marked a new era of elegance in fashion. Her majestic white satin coronation gown was designed by British designer Norman Hartnell and made with ten thousand seed pearls, gold bullion, and silken embroidery. Queen Elizabeth completed the look with the diamond Diadem crown, which features 1333 diamonds and 169 pearls. Her outfit set a standard for royal fashion that would last for decades.
The 1960s – The Arrival of Mini Skirts
The 60s were a time of great change and innovation in fashion, and the Coronation ceremony was no exception. Princess Margaret’s Coronation gown in 1962 was made by Norman Hartnell, who designed her sister’s gown. However, what caught the attention of the public was her bright yellow mini dress and coat, which she wore to the post-coronation ball. The outfit was revolutionary in its simplicity, and it ushered in a new era of mini dresses and skirts.
The 1970s – Bohemian Chic
The 70s were all about the Bohemian look in fashion, and the Coronation ceremony was no exception. Princess Anne’s Coronation gown in 1971 was designed by Maureen Baker, who incorporated a boho-chic style into the design. The gown featured a V-neckline and a long flowing skirt that was made from a pleated silk chiffon material. The Princess completed the look with a beaded headband and a long veil, which gave her an ethereal look.
The 1980s – Royal Glamour
The 80s were all about glamor and excess in fashion, and Princess Diana’s Coronation in 1981 was no exception. Her iconic wedding dress was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, who used over 10,000 pearls and sequins to create the stunning gown. The dress had a 25-foot-long train, which made it the longest train in royal history. Princess Diana completed the look with the Spencer family tiara, which was decorated with diamonds and a pearl drop.
The 1990s – A Time of Minimalism
The 90s were all about minimalism in fashion, and the Coronation ceremony was no exception. Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee in 2002 was marked by a simple but elegant outfit. The Queen wore a gold silk brocade coat over a matching dress, which was designed by her senior dresser, Angela Kelly. The outfit was completed with a matching hat and gloves, and the Queen wore her trademark pearls.
In conclusion, the fashion at Coronation has evolved over the decades, reflecting the changing styles and trends of each era. However, one thing remains constant – the elegance and sophistication of the royal family’s outfits, which have kept us in awe for generations.
