Fashion sketch for Queen Elizabeth II

This fashion sketch by British fashion designer Ian Thomas is for Queen Elizabeth II. She wore it for an official state visit to Saudi Arabia in 1979.

Fashion sketches were sent to customers for approval and comment. Designs for members of the Royal Family were often subject to royal protocol and suitability for a royal occasion such as a state visit abroad.

The design incorporates details that adhere to the dress code required for the visit. The designer has highlighted these with handwritten notes at the bottom of the sketch, ''Covered up' dress, with long sleeves and 'High neck'' at the bottom of the sketch. It is signed Ian Thomas and features an official 'By Royal Appointment' red stamp.

Ian Thomas dressed many members of the Royal Family. He worked with Queen Elizabeth II for over 20 years and created some of her most iconic outfits, including the outfit she wore for the wedding of King Charles III, when Prince of Wales, and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981.

It is reported that the Queen appreciated the restrained and understated elegance of his designs. Both were known to share a common interest in horses and horse racing. In 1973 the designer was awarded a Royal warrant as dress maker. Before setting up his own label and couture house Ian Thomas worked for 17 years as an assistant to the prestigious British designer, Sir Norman Hartnell, who designed Queen Elizabeth II's wedding and coronation dresses.