Queen Elizabeth - 1950s style icon
Queen Elizabeth style - the Kate Middleton of the 1950s
Did you know that in the 1950s our present Queen Elizabeth was seen as a style icon - much in the same way as the Duchess of Cambridge is seen today, or even Diana back in her day?
When the 1950s dawned, the queen was simply known as Princess Elizabeth; it would be three years later that she became the sovereign. But like Katherine, she did have her own handsome prince; she and Prince Philip of Greece had married in 1947 and by the time she was crowned, she was the mother of two young children.
Although the recent war was fresh in everyone's minds, the Queen knew how to sparkle on formal public occasions. In her private life, or when touring or making public appearances, she showed a restrained but fashionable style that was emulated by women all over the world.She was seen as a trend setter who inspired women to look fabulous - thanks to her own modern yet sophisticated style. My mum was born at around the same time as the Elizabeth and told me often how young women idolized her.
Her Royal Style
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Style for a monarch in the 1950s
Because the war was so recent - in fact, rationing didn't fully end until 1954 - the Queen was economical and yet she was stylish when choosing her wardrobe. She wore regal gowns for formal occasions but during tours and when attending public appearances she chose a style that all women could copy. And they did.She was the Princess Diana and the Duchess of Cambridge of her day.
More style photographs
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Further reading
Elizabeth has had a fascinating life.
She wasn't brought up to be a monarch; that only came to pass because of the abdication of her uncle, Edward Vlll who renounced the throne so he could marry Wallis Simpson, the American divorcee.
Nevertheless, she has served her country for her entire adult life transforming herself from a young married woman into an ambassador and monarch who is respected the world over.
Get the look
This stylish look is so popular, still today
Pearls
Queen Elizabeth is rarely seen without pearls, in common with most women in the British Royal Family.
She has,of course, the benefit of heirloom jewellery that has been in her family for generations but we can still copy her 1950s style.
The jewellery worn by Queen Elizabeth II is probably priceless but you can easily and inexpensively emulate her look by buying beautiful pearl jewelry online.
Simply stylish bracelets
You'll have noticed that Her Majesty often wears simple bracelets, often over her crisp white gloves.
Fashion stylists agree that it's the small details such as this that defines a well dressed woman. You can buy a beautiful selection online.
Other royal articles
Colour video from the 1950s
It's not often you see colour videos from that era from the UK so this is lovely. I would love to have the peep-toe shoes that the Queen is wearing in the final segment!
