What to expect from Queen Elizabeth II's 2026 Fashion Exhibition

Spanning over ten decades of her life, Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style is a curation of approximately 200 items that the Queen wore throughout her lifetime. In the year that she would have turned 100 years old, this exhibition opens its doors to all, celebrating her life through her fashion legacy. Taking place in Buckingham Palace from 10th April 2026 - 18th October 2026, tickets to this highly anticipated event are available online. 

Fashion has been a steady and powerful voice for the Queen during her reign, from jewellery to dresses, sketches to final looks, every piece has its own tale, and here are the top 5 things to look forward to in the Exhibition. 

Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Dress

On 2nd June, 1953, the whole world held its breath; watching the majestic ceremony that would forever change the course of British history. Time slowed, as if basking in the grand scenery too, as Princess Elizabeth walked down the hall. All eyes on her, wearing a regal gold dress, made by British couturier Norman Hartnell. A dress that exuded a regal confidence, with a heavy velvet train that was carried by six Maids of Honour. Hartnell spent eight months researching and perfecting this dress. He later became the first fashion designer to be named a Knight of the Royal Victorian Order. This momentous dress will be highlighted in the Exhibition, open for all to see, and feel the grandeur of the Royal Coronation. A symphony of instruments crescendoed through the palace, signalling a shift in legacy, and a change in power. This fashion moment marked the change of a Princess to a Queen, forever framed in history. 

(Also Read: Princess Kate looks elegant in ivory for Easter 2026)

The Queen’s Wedding Dress

A wedding is usually one of the most special occasions for any woman, and a Princess’ wedding is one that represents the Crown, the People, and her power. On November 20th, 1947, ninety-one singers echoed hymns, setting the stage for Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip to tie the knot. As the Royal Wedding commenced, the Princess’ dress was one that caught the attention of many. Designed by Norman Hartnell, it took three-hundred and fifty seamstresses to make the dress, which featured ten-thousand tiny seed pearls! Dripping with opulence, a fifteen-foot train added to the awe that followed this sight. The world bore witness to this wedding, and the Princess’ regalia was the talk of the town. It's fair to say that this dress would be extremely popular when showcased at the Exhibition. 

Royal Accessories and Jewellery

A Queen must have her crown. However, there is a lot more than a single crown that goes into styling royalty. Appearances must be maintained from the very start, and the Exhibition documents all the stages of accessories that the Queen wore; from childhood to her reign. Passed down to six generations of queens, the famous Diadem Crown will be on display as well. This crown is strongly associated with Queen Elizabeth as it was shared as an official photographed portrait, and was printed as post stamps that traveled to every corner of the world. Other featured items include the Delhi Durbar necklace, an assortment of hats, bangles, brooches, necklaces, footwear, headscarves, and more. Styling that is done for royalty tells a message, and stays for a lifetime. To look put together, to honour the legacy of these pieces, and to bear the weight of their history is a task meant for a strong head. 

The Queens Off-Duty Wardrobe 

For all the extravagance that is seen in the media, the royal armoire entails more than just pretty dresses. From garden strolls to horse - riding, the Queen had elegant ensembles that characterised her personal life. Worn for official photos in even the last years of her life, the iconic green coat made by Angela Kelly will be on display. Pieces fashioned by couture designers such as Hardy Amies, Norman Hartnell and more will also be curated at the Exhibition. From raincoats to tartan skirts, a wide range of regal off-duty looks are to be expected. These garments are not the centre of attention when compared to the grand displays that a monarch is known for; however, they offer an almost intimate and personal glimpse, taking us through the many unread chapters of Queen Elizabeth’s life.

(Also Read: Meghan Markle's top 5 tips for hosting, as seen on her show, 'With Love, Meghan')

What Goes into Designing Royal Ensembles

The world witnesses these extravagant gowns, perfectly tailored, shimmering and stunning, but what goes on behind the scenes? How are dresses with thousands of pearls that need hundreds of seamstresses conceptualised? The Exhibition will display the process that goes into making royal ensembles. Sketches envisioning complex dresses, fabric swatches, and more will be open for the public to see. Hand notes for the pieces show the close involvement of the Queen in the journey of these pieces. These slow procedures, meticulous plans and months of work remain in the shadows, allowing the final looks to shine in front of the world. And now, as the Palace celebrates 100 years of the Queen, in what feels as almost like a full-circle moment, these raw and unknown moments will be dusted off and brought to life.

Text by Nikita Gupta 

Edited by Sabrina Mathews