The object of the national gaze for over half a century, the Queen has a vested interest in fashion and is an expert at combining contemporary looks with her own timeless elegance – and the dictates of royal tradition. The monarch fascinates many with eclectic, chameleon-like style choices - often opting for bright, jewel-tone co-ords in punchy shades that ensures she always stands out from the crowd. Tweed, silk, power jackets and pencil skirts, the Queen has rocked them all. The mother-of-four has a passion for accessories too - adding brooches, pearl necklaces, a smattering of diamonds and who can forget her fabulous hats? She is rarely seen without her favourite classic black handbag by Launer London. The trend of Gucci loafers was also started by Her Majesty - she often sports her favourite black pair with gold horsebit detail.
Here, in 1948, the then Princess Elizabeth was dressed for the opera in a floor-length evening gown under a luxurious white fur wrap.
