This Exhibition, set in the glorious, historic State Rooms, brings 90 years of royal fashion out of the shadows of yesteryear into the light of today. The many creations by inspired designers evoke the splendour of great occasions at home and overseas. The long history of Her Majesty, the Queen’s long reign unfolds through exhibits of fashion she has worn from her Christening to her 90th Birthday Celebrations.

Whilst carrying out her many duties, she defined her public appearances through a diplomatic choice of fashion. Overseas visits need understanding of the climate, the exact nature of the engagement, elements of diplomacy and respect for the religion and customs of the country concerned. Her many roles. e.g. Head of Armed Forces, Head of Chivalry and Head of the Commonwealth all need to be considered.

The Queen has always patronised British Designers, especially Sir Norman Hartnell, Hardy Amies and Ian Thomas. In the post war years, Christian Dior, the Parisien designer, created the ‘New Look’ with its luxurious femine shape in gowns which was embraced worldwide. The influence can be seen in Norman Hartnell’s black velvet and silk ball gown of 1948 which is on view. It is typical of the style.

This largest ever Exhibition of the Queen’s fashion encompasses many themes and some exhibits are being displayed for the first time. i.e. the crystal and lace peach beaded cocktail dress for the Opening of the London Olympic Games in 2012 and the vivid green wool-crepe and silk dress and coat for the Official 90th Birthday Celebrations in 2016.

The Queen was christened in the Private Chapel at Buckingham Palace in 1926 wearing a dress commissioned by Queen Victoria for her first child in 1841. It was white lace and silk satin and worn by royal babies up to 2004.

For the first time, the Queen’s Wedding and Coronation dresses are displayed together. Caroline De Guitaut, the Curator, explained how the Wedding Dress had to be designed to combine personal qualities in a dress suitable for a Public occasion. Sir Norman Hartnell was chosen as the Designer. His beautiful creation was inspired by Botticelli’s ‘Primavera’ It enthralls the viewer with its ivory silk decorated with crystals and 10,000 seed pearls. Notice the embroidered foliage and flowers of entrancing loveliness hailing the new post war age and the joyous Wedding Celebrations of the beautiful young Princess.

At the time of the Coronation in 1953, Britain was leading in fashion, design and Architecture. The Coronation Dress needed to reflect this spirit and it had to be suitable for the TV broadcast across the world for the first time. Norman Hartnell designed the Dress in the finest white, duchesse satin. Notice the criss-cross embroidery showing emblems of the UK and Commonwealth Countries embellished with crystal and seed pearls. Unbeknown to the Queen, Norman Hartnell added a four leaf shamrock for good luck on the skirt where she rested her left hand.

The Summer Opening of the State Rooms should not be missed and this year a visit is enhanced by the splendid Exhibiton, ‘Fashioning a Reign’ which displays the great creations which adorned the Queen as she tirelessly performed many duties.

It is pleasing to know that one image of the Queen’s great grandson, Prince George can sell out an entire range of clothing for children in a day! The people have always looked to the Royals to guide them in fashion.

It is pleasant to rest awhile in the attractive cafe which has excellent refreshments for sale. It has perfect views of the gardens. The shop further down the garden has some attractive goods, especially those celebrating the Queen’s 90th Birthday. The jewellery by Alex Monroe is impressive too. I liked the gold-pendants of a corgi!Read more at:http://www.marieaustralia.com/formal-dresses-sydney | http://www.marieaustralia.com/formal-dresses-brisbane