The Remarkable Journey of Queen Elizabeth II: From Princess to the Reigning British Monarch for the Ages

Before her coronation, Princess Elizabeth had already captured the attention of the public as she would eventually become Queen Elizabeth II, the monarch who reigns the longest in British history. Throughout the years, the late British monarch, who passed away in September 2022 at the age of 96, underwent a remarkable style evolution. Seamlessly adapting her wardrobe to the changing fashion trends over the decades, she frequently chose monochromatic outfits, practical patent pumps, and stylish coats.

The queen also showcased formal royal attire on several occasions. In 1983, she opted for a complete uniform to honor her guard during the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony. The following year, she enhanced her white gown by complementing it with a blue cape and a stunning diamond tiara for the Service of Saints Michael and George.

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Scroll down to view a photographic timeline showcasing the queen's life, spanning from 1926 to 2022, during which she gained recognition for her vibrant, single-colored outfits, alongside her reliable Launer handbag, loafers, and sporadic use of headscarves.

Queen Elizabeth II's Evolution From Princess to the Longest-Reigning British Monarch

Even before her ascension to the throne, all eyes were on Princess Elizabeth, who would, of course, become Queen Elizabeth II — the longest-reigning British monarch.

As a young princess, she often donned floral dresses and elegant pleated gowns. When she married the late Prince Philip in 1947, she chose a wedding dress worthy of royalty. Created by Norman Hartnell, her gown was adorned with exquisite pearl and crystal embroidery and boasted an impressive 13-foot train.

The queen also embraced formal royal attire on select occasions. In 1983, she donned a complete uniform to honor her guard at the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony. A year later, she enhanced her white gown for the Service of Saints Michael and George by adding a blue cape and a dazzling diamond tiara.

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The deceased British monarch, who passed away in September 2022 at the age of 96, underwent a remarkable style transformation throughout the years, effortlessly adapting her wardrobe to the changing times. She frequently chose monochromatic outfits, practical patent pumps, and trendy coats.

In addition, the monarch skillfully incorporated the Crown Jewels into her attire, embellishing her outfits with her renowned pearl necklace and extensive assortment of brooches.

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In her youth, she often adorned herself in floral dresses and elegant pleated gowns. When she married the late Prince Philip in 1947, she chose a wedding dress befitting royalty. Expertly crafted by Norman Hartnell, the gown showcased exquisite pearl and crystal embroidery, embellished by a remarkable 13-foot train.

On several notable occasions, the queen also embraced the regal formal attire. In 1983, she donned a full military uniform to pay homage to her guard at the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony. A year later, she added a touch of grandeur to her white gown by adorning it with a blue cape and a dazzling diamond tiara for the Service of Saints Michael and George.

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June 22, 1940

While Elizabeth reads in a puff-sleeve dress, her sister and one of her beloved corgis sits perched with her at a window.

October 10, 1940

Princess Elizabeth and her sister Margaret broadcasted to the children during World War II. They dressed elegantly for the task in blazers with striped shirts underneath. 

1945

At the young age of 19, Princess Elizabeth showcases her uniform, demonstrating her role as a second subaltern. This esteemed title, which is equivalent to that of a second lieutenant, was held by the future queen within the Auxiliary Territorial Service of the British Army. Notably, this branch encompassed volunteer women who fervently served during the challenging period of World War II.

1946

The family portrait features the royal family, with Elizabeth seated at the far right. Sporting a collared dress with front buttons, she is the eldest child of the Duke and Duchess of York.

January 1, 1947

Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten, the future Duke of Edinburgh, make their engagement official at Buckingham Palace. Princess Elizabeth radiates elegance in a captivating gown, adorned with a stunning pearl necklace and a delicate flower-shaped brooch.

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American actress, Meryl Streep, met Queen Elizabeth II after attending a Royal Film Performance of 'Kramer vs Kramer' at the Odeon in Leicester Square, London, on March 18, 1980.

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June 11, 1983

Queen Elizabeth, in full uniform, salutes her guard at the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony outside Buckingham Palace.

July 12, 1984

The Queen, dressed in a white gown with a blue cape and a diamond tiara, enters St. Paul's Cathedral in London for the Service of Saints Michael and George.

July 28, 1985

Prince Charles kisses his mother's hand after she awards him a prize at a polo match in Windsor, England. She grinned from ear-to-ear, dressed in an eye-catching red ensemble.

June 14, 1987

The Royal Box at Guards Polo Club in Windsor, England was the spot where the Queen, accompanied by her grandsons Princes William and Harry, enjoyed a polo match. Her attire for the occasion included a sky blue dress and a corresponding blue textured sun hat.

1990

The Queen carried her camera as she snapped photos during the Royal Windsor Horse Show. She wore wide-brimmed glasses, a scarf and a puffy navy jacket.

August 4, 1992

Vibrant and striking dresses! On her 92nd birthday, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mum, alongside Queen Elizabeth II, Margaret, Diana, and Harry, joyfully greets the audience outside Clarence House with waves of delight.

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November 14, 2006

The Queen meets Daniel Craig wearing a silk gown at the premiere of the 21st James Bond film, Casino Royale, at the Odeon in Leicester Square in London.

April 12, 2006

Proud grandmother Queen Elizabeth glows with joy as she admires Prince Harry during his inspection of the soldiers at the renowned Sovereign's Parade, held at the esteemed Sandhurst Military Academy in Surrey, England. Her regal attire, consisting of an elegant beige ensemble and pristine white gloves, exudes timeless fashion.

May 5, 2009

During a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, the Queen cut a piece of cake wearing a pink peacoat and matching hat with black details.

July 12, 2010 

The Queen showcased her gardening skills during her trip to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh in Scotland. Demonstrating her passion for nature, she planted a tree with finesse, effortlessly debunking the misconception that a formal attire is unsuited for such activities. Her ensemble, consisting of a charming lavender coatdress complemented by a perfectly coordinated hat, exuded elegance and grace.

April 1, 2011

Accompanied by her grandson Prince William, the Queen paid a visit to RAF Valley in Holyhead, England, where William had served as a search and rescue helicopter pilot. Adding a touch of elegance to her attire, she paired her red outfit with stylish black accessories.

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September 6, 2014

Elizabeth and her son Prince Charles share a laugh while taking in the Braemar Highland Games during the famed Braemar Gathering in Braemar, Scotland. 

July 5, 2015

Princess Charlotte's christening commenced at Sandringham Estate, where Duchess Kate and the Queen greeted her with warm smiles as she sat in her carriage. In honor of this significant event, she donned a charming baby-pink coat.

2016

Inside Windsor Castle, the queen gracefully appears alongside her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, dressed in a tastefully coordinated outfit. Annie Leibovitz captures this precious moment for a striking spread featured in Vanity Fair. Princess Charlotte rests comfortably in the queen's lap as they all harmoniously pose together.

December 8, 2016

A stunning sight in pure white! Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, is joined by Prince Charles, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince William, and Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge (adorned in Diana's treasured tiara). They stand regally and strike a pose within a lavishly decorated room at Buckingham Palace, just before the commencement of the annual reception in honor of members from the Diplomatic Corps.

April 20, 2016

The Queen receives a bouquet of flowers from a child outside the Royal Mail Windsor, where she toasted the 500th anniversary of the postal service in a hot pink number.

June 11, 2016

At Buckingham Palace, the royal family gathers on the balcony, with the Queen positioned in neon green at the center. They eagerly watch as planes soar overhead, paying tribute to the celebration of the monarch's 90th birthday.

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December 6, 2017

Queen Elizabeth welcomes Mr George Adesola Oguntade, the High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, along with his wife, as they officially present his Letter of Credence in a private audience held at Buckingham Palace.

December 13, 2017

Following her recording of the Christmas Day broadcast to the Commonwealth, Queen Elizabeth II elegantly stood before the desk in the 1844 Room within Buckingham Palace, clad in a resplendent white ensemble. With the conclusion of her speech, she warmly conveyed, "Irrespective of the diverse encounters you have encountered this year, and regardless of where or how you may be observing, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a serene and exceptionally joyous Christmas."

May 19, 2018

On Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding day, the Queen gracefully stood alongside members of the royal family. Her majesty exuded elegance, adorned in a lime green coat layered over a dress adorned with a delightful floral pattern. Completing her ensemble was a hat perfectly coordinated with her attire.

May 21, 2018

Amidst the exquisite Peter Beale flower display at the renowned Chelsea Flower Show in London, England, the graceful presence of Her Majesty gracefully intertwined with the surrounding roses. Adorned in a charming pink coat paired with delicate white gloves, she effortlessly harmonized with the breathtaking beauty of the blossoms.

July 6, 2018

The Queen appeared with her grandson Prince William for the Order of the Thistle Service at St. Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh wearing traditional matching garb. 

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March 19, 2019

The princess looked stunning in a pink ensemble during her visit to King's College in London alongside Duchess Kate. During the occasion, they formally inaugurated Bush House, a state-of-the-art educational facility at the Strand Campus. Her Highness elegantly paired her pastel coat and hat with her favorite black loafers, handbag, and gloves.

April 21, 2019

Celebrating her 93rd birthday and Easter at St George’s Chapel in Windsor, the monarch looked vibrant in a robin’s egg blue coat that she layered over a fuchsia sheath.

May 8, 2019

Upon meeting her grandson Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, who entered the world on the 6th of May, the British monarch exuded an endearing combination of charm and elegance as she sported a delightful blue cardigan paired effortlessly with plaid bottoms.

May 18, 2019

One year after Prince Harry tied the knot with Meghan Markle, the Queen and other members of the royal family came together once more for the wedding of Lady Gabriella Windsor and Thomas Kingston. Accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip, the Queen appeared in a stunning Stewart Parvin pink tweed coat layered over a floral printed silk dress. Her ensemble was perfectly completed with a matching Rachel Trevor Morgan hat adorned with beautiful flowers. Lady Gabriella, who is the daughter of one of the Queen's cousins, Prince Michael of Kent, holds the 52nd position in the line of succession to the British throne.

May 29, 2019

The queen graced the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace donning an elegant pastel pink coat with delicate white trimmings, complemented perfectly by a hat adorned with beautiful flowers. However, it was her practical yet fashionable pink-accented umbrella, serving as a defense against the gloomy London weather, that truly captivated everyone's attention.

June 3, 2019

For his three-day state visit, President Trump was warmly welcomed at Buckingham Palace by the monarch, who donned an elegant mint green coat by Stewart Parvin. Complementing her attire, she wore a coordinating hat and adorned herself with the renowned and breathtaking Cambridge Emerald Brooch.

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June 18, 2019

The Royal Ascot witnessed the presence of the Queen of England, adorned in an elegant periwinkle coat. Complementing her ensemble was a hat adorned with exquisite 3-D flowers. To maintain a polished appearance, she accessorized with white gloves, a dainty broach, and a strand of lustrous pearls.

June 19, 2019

During the second day of the Royal Ascot, the British queen selected a delicate blue coat paired with a floral dress peeking out from underneath. The dress elegantly coordinated with the assortment of purple blossoms adorning her hat. However, her most noteworthy accessory was her matching umbrella—a necessary item she consistently has custom-made for rainy days.

June 20, 2019

Continuing her streak, the queen opted for a delightful blue ensemble at the Royal Ascot for the third consecutive day, donning a coat and hat in a soft shade of this captivating hue. To add a touch of elegance, the outerwear showcased exquisite yellow flower embroidery along the neckline, mirroring the intricate detailing on her hat.

June 21, 2019

On the fourth day of the Royal Ascot, Queen Elizabeth made a bold style statement by transforming her appearance. She chose a vibrant pink tweed coat paired with a stunning floral dress, complemented by a hat adorned with exquisite feathers.

June 23, 2019

The attendees at The Royal Windsor Cup Final at Guards Polo Club in Egham, England couldn't help but notice the monarch in her eye-catching ensemble. She stood out with her vibrant fuchsia coat and coordinating hat, which perfectly complemented her cheerful floral print blouse. Completing her look were her beloved triple-strand pearl necklace and an exquisite brooch.

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July 9, 2019

Exhibiting her affinity for vibrant hues, the Queen of the United Kingdom captivated onlookers with her latest striking ensemble. She effortlessly flaunted an eye-catching hot pink attire, consisting of a tweed coat and a matching hat, which perfectly complemented the floral dress underneath. The remarkable ensemble was adorned as she paid a visit to the prestigious National Institute of Agricultural Botany.

July 17, 2019

In honor of the 200th Anniversary of Queen Victoria's birth, the queen embarked on a visit to Buckingham Palace to admire a remarkable exhibition dedicated to her great-great-grandmother. To mark this significant event, she gracefully adorned herself in an elegant floral dress with long sleeves, complemented by her signature pearls.

September 7, 2019

The annual Braemar Games in Braemar, Scotland saw the queen gracefully clad in a stunning ensemble. A vibrant, floor-length coat in a shade of deep purple adorned her figure, perfectly complemented by a matching hat. Enhancing her regal appearance, she adorned herself with exquisite pearl earrings, a silver brooch, and carried a black purse. To protect herself from the chilly weather, she completed her look with a pair of elegant gloves.

July 24, 2019

When the British royal met with the new prime minister Boris Johnson, she chose to wear a vibrant blue printed dress complemented by her timeless accessories: a broach, pearls, and a black handbag elegantly held on her forearm.

August 6, 2019

What an impeccable summer ensemble! Her Majesty donned a delightful light blue jacket and skirt ensemble, accompanied by a complementing floral hat, as she kicked off her traditional summer retreat at Balmoral Castle. As per her customary style, she effortlessly matched the sunny color palette with a sky-blue umbrella, achieving a flawlessly coordinated look.

August 17, 2019

: Queen of England Graces Braemar and Crathie Parish Church in Stunning Teal Ensemble

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