Queen Elizabeth II’s personal stylist, Angela Kelly, has recently unveiled intimate details about the late monarch’s fashion choices and personal preferences. Serving as the Queen’s Personal Assistant and Senior Dresser from 1993 until 2022, Kelly played a pivotal role in shaping the Queen’s iconic style.
Insights into the Queen’s Wardrobe
Angela Kelly’s close relationship with the Queen provided her with unique insights into the monarch’s wardrobe. In her book, The Other Side of the Coin: The Queen, the Dresser and the Wardrobe, Kelly shares anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the Queen’s attention to detail and her involvement in fashion decisions. For instance, Kelly reveals that the Queen preferred to have her shoes broken in by someone else to ensure comfort during her engagements.
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The Story Behind the Queen’s Hairstyle
The Queen’s distinctive hairstyle remained consistent for over 70 years. According to hairdresser Lino Carbosiero, who occasionally styled the Queen’s hair, she never had a traditional blow-dry. Instead, her hair was set and styled in a manner that became synonymous with her image. Carbosiero recalls an instance where the Queen humorously suggested trying a blow-dry, but they decided against it to maintain her iconic look.
SPHERE LIFE
Sourcing Materials from Unlikely Places
Kelly’s resourcefulness extended to sourcing materials from unconventional places. Stella McLaren, the Queen’s personal milliner, recounted that Kelly would often pick up artificial flowers from retailers like Ikea to decorate the Queen’s hats. These flowers would be repurposed into hat decorations, showcasing Kelly’s creativity and the Queen’s openness to incorporating diverse elements into her attire.
INSTYLE
Maintaining the Queen’s Comfort
Kelly also shared that during the COVID-19 lockdown, she took on additional responsibilities, including washing and setting the Queen’s hair weekly. This arrangement, humorously dubbed “Kelly’s Salon,” ensured that the Queen’s grooming needs were met while adhering to safety protocols.
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A Personal Bond
Beyond their professional relationship, Kelly and the Queen shared a close personal bond. Kelly’s memoirs reflect the trust and affection between them, offering readers a glimpse into the human side of the monarchy. Their relationship was characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to upholding the dignity of the royal image.
Angela Kelly’s revelations provide a deeper understanding of Queen Elizabeth II’s personal style and the meticulous care that went into maintaining her public image. Through Kelly’s accounts, we gain insight into the blend of tradition, innovation, and personal touch that defined the Queen’s enduring elegance.
For a visual exploration of the Queen’s fashion evolution, you might find the following video insightful: