Queen Camilla’s Coronation Gown by Bruce Oldfield Marks a Fashion Transformation

Camilla’s fashion journey began long before she became Queen, but her Coronation marked a significant turning point.

Her choice of a regal white Bruce Oldfield gown adorned with delicate embroidery set the tone for her new role. It was a statement of grace and majesty, reflecting her understanding of the occasion’s importance.

For a woman once criticized for her conservative and sometimes frumpy choices, the Queen—who turns 77 on Wednesday—has made quite the turnaround in fashion terms. She now epitomizes elegance, confidence, and a keen sense of what works for her.

Working with dresser Jacqui Meakin, Camilla champions British designers such as Oldfield, Fiona Clare, Anna Valentine, and milliner Philip Treacy, creating bespoke designs for the myriad events she attends. Fiona Clare, one of her designers, aims to ensure that her clients’ outfits will “photograph to flatter.”

Since the Coronation, Camilla has refined her style further, choosing colors and silhouettes that flatter her figure and convey timeless elegance. One key strategy has been to embrace a more tailored look. Gone are the days of shapeless dresses and oversized coats.

Camilla now opts for fitted blazers, structured skirts, and dresses that highlight her waist. This shift towards tailored pieces has given her wardrobe a polished and sophisticated edge.

Camilla has always played by the rules, usually sporting a coat dress and hat combination for daytime engagements, much like the late Queen, but with some subtle differences. Her coat dresses feature her signature mandarin collar and well-placed darts that define her waist—details the late Queen avoided.

Fiona Clare mentioned, “I aim to create a piece that will be perfect for the occasion it is intended for, and for many more occasions afterwards. I consider where it will be worn, accessories, jewellery, and the time of year. Sometimes a dress or coat needs to be a beautifully cut piece using the finest silk crepe or wool with some embroidery in the same color to be a ‘canvas’ for the jewellery being worn.”

Camilla’s color choices play a crucial role in her fashion renaissance. She has mastered monochromatic dressing, favoring a subdued palette rather than the bold colors of Queen Elizabeth. Whether it’s a head-to-toe cream ensemble or a striking navy outfit, Camilla knows how to make a statement without overwhelming her frame.

Hairstyle and hair color have also evolved. Jo Hansford, her hair colorist for three decades, remarked, “The Queen is definitely a style icon and a wonderful ambassador for modern British women. She knows what works for her and is confident and comfortable in her choices.”

Hansford added, “As Camilla’s skin tone and hair texture have changed over the years, her hairstyle has discreetly evolved too. I’ve been working on her color to create a warmer, softer highlighted look which suits her skin tone.”

Accessorizing has also become a nuanced art for Camilla. She is known for her exquisite collection of hats, ranging from wide-brimmed headpieces adorned with feathers to chic fascinators. Her headwear is always on point, complementing her outfits perfectly.

Her jewelry collection often features heirloom jewels and tiaras, adding a sentimental touch to her ensembles. Her shoes, mostly from Sole Bliss, are classic and comfortable, suitable for her busy schedule. Mid-heeled pumps in neutral shades are a staple, combining style and practicality.

For more casual engagements, Camilla opts for elegant flats or stylish boots, always ensuring that her footwear complements her outfit while providing the necessary comfort for long days.

Camilla’s fashion evolution is a testament to her understanding of style, comfort, and the significance of her role. Her transformation from conservative choices to an emblem of elegance and confidence is notable and inspiring.

Source: Daily Mail.