A historic Christening robe that has been worn by numerous royal children, including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William, is set to be displayed for the first time in a new exhibition at The King’s Gallery in London. This highly anticipated showcase will open its doors to the public on April 10, coinciding with the celebrations marking what would have been Queen Elizabeth’s 100th birthday.
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The gown, crafted from luxurious cream silk and adorned with Honiton lace, boasts a rich history dating back to 185 years ago. It was initially created for Princess Victoria, Queen Victoria’s eldest child, who wore it at her christening in 1841. The robe features prominently in Elizabeth’s own history; she was photographed wearing it when she was just a month old during her christening in May 1926.
In the years since, the garment has been a staple at royal christenings, having been used for 62 children in total. This includes notable figures such as Prince William in 1982, his brother Prince Harry, and most recently, Lady Louise Windsor, the daughter of Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, in 2004. As the royal robe grew more delicate with age, it was eventually deemed no longer suitable for use by new generations, leading to a number of replicas being made for the children of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
The upcoming exhibition, titled “Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style,” will feature not just the Christening robe, but a total of 200 items from the late Queen’s wardrobe. This comprehensive display will run until October 18, 2026, and is a cornerstone of commemorations celebrating the life and legacy of the late monarch.
Curated by Caroline de Guitaut, the exhibition aims to offer a glimpse into Queen Elizabeth’s enduring influence on royal fashion and British craftsmanship. De Guitaut has emphasised the robe’s significance, stating that it is “an exceptional example of British craftsmanship,” and expressing her excitement to share such a pivotal piece of royal history with the public.
To ensure the robe is preserved in suitable condition for the exhibit, it underwent over 100 hours of meticulous conservation work by experts at the Royal Collection Trust. The textile conservator, Cecilia Oliver, detailed the extent of the repairs, which included addressing intricate holes and reinforcing delicate fabric areas. The robe was also handwashed with care, reflecting its historical and sentimental value.
Amid the restoration process, the team discovered a note within the robe’s storage box, which recommended washing the garment in natural spring water after each use, a hint at the care it has received across generations. Oliver spoke warmly of her work on the gown, calling it “an honour and a privilege to work on such a special historic garment.”
As the exhibition approaches, anticipation builds around the display of the robe and the ensemble of items showcasing Queen Elizabeth II’s illustrious fashion legacy. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to delve into the sartorial choices that shaped the public image of one of the most iconic monarchs in British history.
In addition to the Christening robe, the exhibition will feature a range of garments worn by Queen Elizabeth throughout her life, highlighting her evolution in style and the role fashion played in her reign. As the world looks back on her remarkable life, this exhibition promises to be a fitting tribute to a queen who defined elegance and dignity through her attire.
By exploring the connection between the royal family and their clothing, the exhibit provides insight not only into the personal history of the royals but also offers a glimpse of the enduring traditions that continued through Queen Elizabeth’s life. As the nation prepares to celebrate her centenary, this exhibition stands as a poignant reminder of her lasting impact on both the monarchy and British culture.