ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Buckingham Palace exhibition showcases 300 fashion items from Queen Elizabeth II's century

exhibition · 2026-04-15

The King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace is hosting "Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style," an exhibition featuring 300 pieces from her extensive 4,000-item collection, which will be on display until October 18. This event commemorates the 100th anniversary of her birth on April 21, 1926. Noteworthy items include a childhood dress from 1934 and her coronation gown designed by Norman Hartnell in 1953. Textile conservator Cecilia Oliver highlighted the emotional significance of the childhood dress. The exhibition also presents Elizabeth's fashion journey, showcasing diplomatic ensembles like a 1975 cherry blossom dress and a green-and-white dress from 1961. Curator Caroline de Guitaut emphasized the queen's unique style. The collection features hats, accessories, and the outfit worn by her stunt double during the 2012 Olympics. Elizabeth passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96.

Key facts

  • Exhibition features 300 items from Queen Elizabeth II's 4,000-piece collection
  • Marks the centenary of Elizabeth's birth on April 21, 1926
  • Includes childhood dress from 1934 and coronation gown from 1953
  • Showcases diplomatic outfits from Japan (1975), Pakistan (1961), and Ireland (2011)
  • Features wall of statement hats and 2012 Olympics stunt double dress
  • Elizabeth died September 8, 2022 at age 96 after 70-year reign
  • Exhibition runs through October 18 at King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
  • Elizabeth celebrated two birthdays: actual April date and public June celebration

Entities

Artists

  • Norman Hartnell
  • Cecilia Oliver
  • Caroline de Guitaut
  • Marian Kwe
  • Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh
  • Elizabeth II
  • Danica Kirka
  • Victoria Murphy
  • Michele Debczak
  • Angela Kelly
  • Queen Elizabeth II

Institutions

  • Buckingham Palace
  • King's Gallery
  • Associated Press
  • BBC News
  • Town & Country
  • Vogue
  • Smithsonian Magazine
  • History Channel
  • Mental Floss
  • IndieWire
  • Eater
  • Vice
  • Royal Collection Trust

Locations

  • Buckingham Palace
  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Japan
  • Pakistan
  • Ireland
  • Brooklyn
  • New York

Sources