On 2 June 1953, the world watched in awe as Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in Westminster Abbey. At just 27 years old, she stood at the centre of a ceremony steeped in a thousand years of tradition – a glittering pageant of symbolism, sanctity, and sovereignty. Her coronation was the first to be broadcast on television, allowing millions around the world to witness the splendour from their living rooms.
Continue reading “The Fashion of Elizabeth II’s Coronation: Styled by Norman Hartnell”
On this day in 1953, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place in Westminster Abbey. The first such ceremony to be televised, it gave her subjects the rare opportunity to see their new monarch resplendent in the robes and jewels of state — including the impressive Coronation Necklace and Earrings.
Continue reading “The Coronation Necklace and Earrings”
When she emerged from that Rolls-Royce Phantom VI at the Abbey’s West Door on 29th April 2011, Kate Middleton wasn’t just wearing a beautiful custom Alexander McQueen dress — she was also showcasing a stunning tiara that hadn’t been seen in public for almost 40 years.
Continue reading “The Cartier Halo Tiara: A Royal Legacy”
On this day in 1922, Princess Mary, the only daughter of King George V and Queen Mary, married Viscount Henry Lascelles at Westminster Abbey.
Mary and Henry were already acquainted, having moved in similar social circles. However, it was at the Grand National in 1921 that they became closer. Over the following months, their friendship developed, and they met several times at country house parties, including one at Chatsworth – the Duchess of Devonshire was reportedly not surprised by the engagement when the announcement was made. Invitations to Sandringham and Balmoral followed, and, in November, Henry was invited to join the King’s shooting party at Sandringham. It was there, in the woods, that he proposed. Mary’s parents gave their consent, and Queen Mary wrote in her diary:
Continue reading “Royal Fashion: Princess Mary’s 1922 Wedding Style”
Not quite a tiara, I know! But probably the most well known ‘sparkler’ in the royal collection, and thoroughly worthy of this inaugural ‘Tiara Tuesday’ post.
Instantly recognisable to many as the iconic crown featured on Queen Elizabeth II’s image on coins and stamps, this remarkable piece of jewellery was originally created for the coronation of George IV. It was designed for him to wear over his Cap of Estate during the procession to Westminster Abbey.
Continue reading “Tiara Tuesday – The Diamond Diadem”
Prince Albert is remembered for many things – his interest in science and farming, his patronage of the arts, and the personal triumph that was the Great Exhibition – but what not enough people talk about, outside of already interested circles, is his fantastic eye for jewels.
Continue reading “Prince Albert’s Sapphire Cluster Brooch”
On this day 7 years ago, Buckingham Palace announced the engagement of HRH Princess Eugenie of York to Jack Brooksbank. The groom-to-be had popped the question in front of Nicaraguan volcano, and then sealed the deal with a stunning padparadscha sapphire engagement ring. With its centre stone surrounded by a halo of 10 round cut diamonds, the ring is reminiscent of the one worn by her mother, Sarah, Duchess of York.
Mistress of the Robes 