Queen Elizabeth II was a driving icon, a family-first icon (for better and for worse) and, of course, a fashion icon.
Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle may have gotten more attention in recent years for their style choices, but the queen was making headlines for her mixed prints and color-blocking way before they were around.
In later years she was known for color coordinating suits and elaborate hats, which came from a wardrobe that was meticulously planned and put together in advance. She even employed someone to wear in her shoes, and wore a lot of blue.
But she was no less fashion-forward than she was during some of her earlier, less expected moments. Like, say, a statement coat at 9 years old or the many flower crowns she’s worn over the years.
Check out our favorite vintage photos of Queen Elizabeth II’s style, both then and in the years just before her death, below.
