In the past months, we have been watching Queen Elizabeth II at many events -- the wedding of her grandson, the Diamond Jubilee, and many annual ceremonial events. We are constantly fascinated by her lovely hats.
Her hats cannot cover up her face, since that is why people come out -- to see her! So that means none of the big brims or fluttery veils that can be so flattering. And since she so often is climbing in and out of limos, they can't be too big. Or in danger of blowing off. However, her milliners certainly manage to come up with a wonderful and colorful selection of styles -- here are a selection of our favorites.
For the Silver Jubilee in 1977, The Queen's pink chapeau, decorated with 25 bells for the years in her reign, was designed by milliner Frederick Fox, who made more than 350 hats for Her Majesty.
At the Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, 2011
The Queen with the Duchess of Cambridge in Leicester
Boarding the Spirit of Chartwell for the Thames Procession
Both of the Queen's ensembles were created by her chief dresser-designer, Angela Kelly, who also made the creamy lemon outfit Her Majesty wore to the Royal Wedding.
At the Silver Jubilee Service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul's Cathedral, 5 June, 2012
Queen Elizabeth II in Northern Ireland, June 26, 2012, in Wedgwood Blue
Below, the pink number that is Victoria's all-time favorite, worn at Ascot, 2011.
Another view below:
Trooping the Colour, 2011.
A rainbow of colo(u)r:
The Queen at Epsom Derby, this hat by Rachel Trevor Morgan
A paler blue hat by Philip Somerville, also a long-time milliner to Her Majesty
The Queen rarely wears beige, brown or black, being more visible in her favorite colorful couture, but there are exceptions!
At Remembrance Day, November 13, 2011
Sometimes, while not on official duties, the Queen enjoys a headscarf!
Regalia of the Order of the Garter
The Real Thing in Headware
9 May, 2012 opening Parliament
Labels: Diamond Jubilee, Fashion