In this section are some of the finest examples of the work of leading British couturiers who have worked for The Queen, many receiving Her Majesty’s Royal Warrant as her official dressmaker.

Included are romantic, richly embroidered crinoline gowns worn on state occasions in the 1950s and 1960s designed by Norman Hartnell (1901–1979) and elegantly restrained dresses designed by Hardy Amies (1909–2003) from the late 1940s and the early 1980s. Also on display are dresses by Ian Thomas (1929–1993) who designed for The Queen from the 1970s and John Anderson from the 1980s. While these dresses reflect the style of the era in which they were produced, The Queen’s clothes transcend fashion and are designed for her role as Head of State, occasionally incorporating subtle diplomatic messages in their colours and emblems.

Each example brings to life a memorable occasion while illustrating the best of British couture.