The Dutchess of Buccleuch, Mistress of the Robes at the coronation of Edward VII, with her page

Instead of a loose cape as worn by peers, a peeress’s robe is close fitting, open down the front and with short fitted sleeves edged with miniver fur. 

A small cape is worn across the shoulders whilst the train is edged with finest ermine.

In addition to rows of sealskin spots on the cape, the peeress’s two other symbols of rank are designed into the dress: the width of the ermine edging and length of train.

 

The ranks are:

Duchess

2 yard train and 5-inch ermine edging

Marchioness

13/4 yard train and 4-inch ermine edging

Countess

1½ yard train and 3-inch ermine edging

Viscountess

¼ yard train and 2-inch ermine edging

Baroness

1 yard train and 2-inch edging

Around 175 peers entrust their robes to Ede and Ravenscroft.  When the State Opening of Parliament draws nears, the Chancery Lane tailor ensures that the peers’ robes are ready for them to attend one the most distinguished annual State occasions held anywhere in the world.