HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II

On 2nd July 1953 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth walked towards her throne, dressed in a robe that was as unique as the coronation ceremony itself.

Her Majesty’s robe followed the strict design guidelines of previous coronations:

“ A six yard train in best quality handmade purple silk velvet, trimmed with best quality Canadian ermine 5" on top and underside and fully lined with pure silk English Satin, complete with ermine cape and all being tailed ermine in the traditional manner, and including embroidery by the Royal School of Needlework.”

His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh also had robes made for the coronation.  Ede and Ravenscroft’s ledger entry for 21st August, 1952 reads:

“A Royal Duke’s Coronation Robe in the best handmade silk velvet trimmed with finest Canadian ermine.  Coronet in metal gilt with airtight case with name inscribed.  A page’s uniform complete.”

Ede and Ravenscroft worked closely with the Earl Marshal’s office to ensure that the peers and knights of the orders of chivalry were also correctly dressed.