Buckingham Palace will next year host a landmark exhibition celebrating the timeless fashion and cultural influence of Queen Elizabeth II, showcasing her wardrobe as a reflection of seven decades of duty and style.
Gatekeepers News reports that titled “Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style,” the exhibition will open at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, in April 2026, featuring around 200 garments worn by the late monarch over her 96-year lifetime — with nearly half of the pieces being displayed for the first time.
“The wardrobe of Her Late Majesty is a snapshot of a very long life — a life of duty — and in so many ways it’s a time capsule,” said British designer Erdem Moralıoğlu, one of several contributors to the exhibition. “It captures a very specific and important moment in history.”
Designers Richard Quinn, Christopher Kane, and Erdem Moralıoğlu are among those lending creative input to the show, which will include sketches and annotated designs from the queen’s collaborations with British couturiers.
Quinn praised the queen’s long-standing role in promoting national talent:
“She always shone a light on British designers, highlighting the relevance and significance of British fashion across the world,” he said.
Kane added that “her garments tell the story of Britain and its changing identity through fashion.”
Among the highlights will be an apple-green evening gown by Norman Hartnell, worn at a 1957 state banquet hosted by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in Washington, as well as the queen’s wedding dress and coronation gown, both also designed by Hartnell. A 1934 bridesmaid’s dress, along with riding attire, tailored daywear, and signature headscarves from her private collection, will also be on display.
The exhibition will feature rare and unusual pieces, including a clear plastic raincoat designed by Hardy Amies in the 1960s — described by the Royal Collection as “strikingly modern for the era.”
“Queen Elizabeth II’s wardrobe was a masterclass in symbolism, tailoring and British craftsmanship,” said Caroline de Guitaut, curator of the exhibition.
Organised by the Royal Collection Trust, the exhibition will run from April 10 to October 18, 2026, with tickets now on sale.
Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for 70 years, passed away in September 2022.
