History in the Making

The Queen’s Fashion in the 1990s

A new season of The Crown will be premiering in the next week. With the fifth season of the hit Netflix show comes a new cast and a heavy dose of drama. I personally have little interest in the War of the Waleses, so I will be looking for other elements during my binge. In addition to some significant political events during the 1990s (see: Tony Blair’s election), I am excited to see how they tackle the Queen’s fashion during the 1990s. This is a period that many of us actually remember, and Elizabeth’s clothing has been ignored by audiences with Diana’s arrival on the show. Let’s get on with Style File Friday and look at a few of my favourite moments from the Queen’s Fashion in the 1990s!

the queens fashion in the 1990s

1991- The Queen’s First Visit to Texas

In terms of The Queen’s countless trips and visits throughout her historic reign, I don’t know that a three day visit to Texas is topping any lists. (My apologies, Texas.) However, I chose this red and white dress because it is emblematic of The Queen’s wardrobe. Elizabeth had a very consistent sense of style, and we see her wearing brightly coloured day dresses with coordinating hats at nearly every single public engagement (during the day). She did not jump from one fad to the next; she appreciated longevity and predictability in her wardrobe.

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1992- State Visit to Germany

1992 remains known as the Royal Family’s Annus Horriblis, and I can guarantee that it will be featuring on the fifth season of The Crown. However, divorces and property destruction were not the only things that happened in 1992. In October, she spent 4 days in Germany, which included a state dinner. After Diana joined the Royal Family, everyone dropped everything to look at Diana’s fashion choices; and then it moved to Fergie’s, and then Camilla’s, and then Catherine and Meghan’s. I think that Elizabeth handled her evening wear in her later life incredibly well. Although daring necklines and trendy fashions were off the docket, the Queen remained elegant and composed for the entirety of her reign. This gown, paired with the kokishnik style tiara is one of my favourite evening looks! (It gives me 1950s vibes while still maintaining it’s “modern” look.)

Queen Elizabeth II in a white floor length gown and tiara at a State Dinner in 1992
Bundesarchiv, Bild 199-1992-089-29 / Jirka, Marie-Josefine / CC-BY-SA 3.0, CC BY-SA 3.0 DE, via Wikimedia Commons

1997- Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s Golden Wedding Anniversary

Another evening look, and no apologies from me on that! I do not think that we will be getting to 1997 on this upcoming season of The Crown (I think that they filmed Diana’s death recently, to be included in the last season). However, I think that Elizabeth nailed thematic dressing with this gown. She was attending a Royal Gala held to celebrate her and Prince Philip’s Golden Wedding anniversary, and it is the perfect occasion. And in addition to being an excellent choice for a golden anniversary, it also gives me Princess Margaret vibes. I am hoping that we get to see their anniversary in the show!

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What are your favourite moments from The Queen’s fashion in the 1990s? 

Cheers,
The Historian
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