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Queen Elizabeth’s most memorable fashion moments through the decades

During her 70-year reign, Queen Elizabeth ruled through fifteen prime ministers, era-defining world events, and multiple generations that saw politics, technology, and society transform.

Yet, through all the changes taking place around her, she remained steadfast in her devotion to the British Empire, and much like her iron-fist style of leadership, she was committed to a royal and stately style of dress.

From the moment she was sworn in as Queen at the tender age of 25, she became known for her penchant for fashion. Even while maintaining the strict rules of Royal dressing, she injected her own personality into each look.

She had a particular affinity for bright colours “so people can spot her from afar” and was known for her love of playful hats - an iconic symbol entrenched in British fashion culture. Cheeky accessories like gloves, brooches and pearl jewellery pieces were also regular accominaments to most of her outfits.

Through the decades, she upheld her unwavering uniform and ability to be perfectly dressed for almost any occasion.

Here are some of her most memorable looks through the decades:

On her wedding day in 1947, Queen Elizabeth wore a dress designed by Norman Hartnell which she purchased using coupons she had saved up during the war. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
At her coronation, she wore a Norman Hartnell-designed gown embellished with national symbols of the United Kingdom and countries of the Commonwealth.
To meet President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jackie Kennedy, the Queen chose a full-skirted blue gown.
At the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth opted for a tuquoise dress and matching hat. (Photo by © Wally McNamee/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images)
Queen Elizabeth II attends the Royal Variety Performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome on November 29, 1999 wearing a sequin-covered "Harlequin" gown, which was one of her most controversial outfits of all time.
The Queen was decked in red for her Golden Jubilee celebration. Image: Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images)
Image: Max Mumby/Getty Images
For her Platinum Jubilee in 2022, the Queen wore bright green to stand out in the crowd. Image: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

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