The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II was a grand event in British history, and one of the most memorable parts of the ceremony was the outfit that Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh wore. The Duchess was a vision of elegance and beauty in her stunning coronation gown, and her outfit became the talk of the town. In this article, we will explore the details of Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh's coronation outfit and the significance behind each element.
The Coronation Gown
The Duchess of Edinburgh's coronation gown was designed by Samantha Shaw, who also designed the Queen's outfit for the occasion. The gown was made of ivory duchess satin, and it featured a fitted bodice and a full skirt. The skirt had a train that was almost 18 feet long, and it was embroidered with gold, silver, and crystal beads in a pattern of wheat ears and olive branches. The embroidery took over 450 hours of work to complete. The gown also had long sleeves and a high neckline, and it was adorned with diamond and pearl buttons.
The Coronation Robe
The Duchess of Edinburgh's coronation robe was made of crimson velvet, and it was lined with ermine. The robe had a long train that was also embroidered with wheat ears and olive branches. The embroidery on the robe took over 250 hours of work to complete. The robe was fastened at the neck with a diamond and pearl clasp.
The Coronation Crown
The Duchess of Edinburgh's coronation crown was made of gold, and it was set with diamonds, pearls, and aquamarines. The crown was designed by David Thomas, and it featured a base of four crosses pattee and four fleurs-de-lis. The crown had a band of diamonds and pearls around the base, and it was topped with a large aquamarine stone. The crown was also adorned with four smaller aquamarines and a row of pearls.
The Coronation Sceptre and Orb
The Duchess of Edinburgh carried the coronation sceptre and orb during the ceremony. The sceptre was made of gold and it was topped with a cross set with diamonds. The orb was made of gold and it was adorned with diamonds, pearls, and other precious stones.
The Significance of the Outfit
The Duchess of Edinburgh's coronation outfit was a symbol of tradition and elegance. The wheat ears and olive branches embroidered on the gown and robe symbolized abundance and peace, and they were a nod to the Queen's role as the head of the Commonwealth. The diamonds, pearls, and other precious stones on the crown, sceptre, and orb represented the wealth and power of the British monarchy.
The Duchess of Edinburgh's Role in the Ceremony
The Duchess of Edinburgh played a key role in the coronation ceremony. She was one of the six royal peers who carried the canopy over the Queen during the procession from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace. The canopy was made of cloth of gold, and it was adorned with gold tassels and fringes. The Duchess also took part in the traditional anointing ceremony, where she held the ampulla and spoon while the Archbishop of Canterbury anointed the Queen with holy oil.
The Aftermath of the Coronation
The Duchess of Edinburgh's coronation outfit was widely admired, and it established her as a style icon. The gown and robe were displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and they were also exhibited in Australia and New Zealand. The crown, sceptre, and orb were also put on display at the Tower of London.
Conclusion
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh's coronation outfit was a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. The gown, robe, crown, sceptre, and orb were all carefully crafted to symbolize the wealth, power, and tradition of the British monarchy. The outfit was a key part of the coronation ceremony, and it established the Duchess as a fashion icon. Even today, more than 60 years later, the outfit remains an iconic symbol of British history and tradition.
Related video of Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh's Coronation Outfit
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