Angela Kelly, who was the close confidante and stylist to Queen Elizabeth II, has shared charming insights into the late monarch’s personality and preferences, particularly regarding her fondness for music. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Kelly reminisced about her nearly three-decade-long tenure serving Queen Elizabeth, during which she became a prominent influence within the royal household.
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According to Kelly, the Queen had a soft spot for ABBA’s classic tune “Dancing Queen.” She revealed that every morning the Queen would tune into the Terry Wogan show on Radio 2, and whenever the song played, both she and the Queen would break into dance. Kelly recounted, “The Queen would move from side to side and sing. Her Majesty loved singing and had a good voice. I didn’t,” she laughed, adding that they would share delightful moments, with the Queen playfully instructing her to step aside when it came to singing.
This warm recollection comes as the royal community prepares to mark what would have been Queen Elizabeth’s 100th birthday on April 21. Kelly’s reflections highlight the personal side of the monarchy that is often overlooked. For the Queen, these cherished moments showcased a relaxed and joyful spirit, a contrast to her public persona.
Angela Kelly became a key figure in the Queen’s life after they first met in 1992 in Germany, where Kelly was a housekeeper for the British ambassador. The strong bond between the two led to Kelly being invited to Buckingham Palace in 1994 as an assistant dresser. Over the years, her position evolved, and she was soon known for modernising the Queen’s wardrobe, adopting a more vibrant and contemporary style.
Kelly became an integral part of the royal household, earning a reputation for her influence and creativity that reportedly garnered her the nickname “AK 47.” She humorously remarked on the Queen’s sense of style, saying, “I told her, ‘Your Majesty, you have good legs. Let’s show them off.’ Needless to say, the hems on the clothes were raised.” The result was a wardrobe renowned for its striking colours and impeccable tailoring, ensuring the Queen remained a fashion icon throughout her reign.
Despite her iconic style, Kelly noted that the late monarch was not particularly fashion-oriented. The Queen preferred to draw attention to her speeches rather than her attire. Yet, she understood the importance of presenting herself well at public appearances. Kelly described fittings with the Queen as enjoyable, noting that she took great delight in the creative process, from selecting fabrics to seeing her garments take shape.
Throughout her service, Kelly had the privilege of accompanying the Queen on royal tours and family holidays, including at Balmoral Castle. She offered a glimpse into the Queen’s personal life, stating, “The family would visit, and she loved being granny.” Kelly fondly remembered family barbecues at Balmoral, where the Queen would crack jokes even when things went awry, demonstrating her down-to-earth nature.
In the wake of the Queen’s passing in September 2022, Kelly maintained her role as the Queen’s trusted aide until the very end, dressing her for her final journey to Windsor. She attended the state funeral and shared reflections on their strong bond, stating, “The Queen was my best friend, and I miss her every day.” Her sentiments highlight the deep trust and loyalty that defined their relationship.
Angela Kelly’s devotion to the Queen was formally recognised when she was appointed a Member of the Royal Victorian Order in 2006, later becoming a Lieutenant in 2012 and a Commander in 2023. Her service to the monarchy has been notable, marked by her published memoir, “The Other Side of the Coin: The Queen, the Dresser and the Wardrobe,” which gives a personal account of her experiences with the late monarch.
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the royal family is left to reflect on her legacy. Angela Kelly’s anecdotes provide a rare and heartfelt look into the life of a woman who was not just a monarch but also a mother, grandmother, and friend. As the nation anticipates the centenary of her birth, the memories shared by those closest to her continue to celebrate her remarkable life and enduring spirit.