Princess Dresses
Take a closer look at these dresses worn by Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret as children
Dresses worn by Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret (c. 1936)Historic Royal Palaces
These are two light cotton dresses that were worn by Princess Elizabeth, later Queen Elizabeth II, and her younger sister Princess Margaret.
The matching outfits were probably not that unusual for upper class families at the time, but wearing matching outfits was an important piece of royal image-making. It showed the family as unified, close and loving.
Dresses worn by Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret (c. 1936)Historic Royal Palaces
The dresses are made from a classic floral printed fabric by Liberty, the London shop famous for its printed textiles.
Look closely and you can see the hem on the larger of the dresses has been shortened.
Side panel detail of dress worn by Queen Elizabeth II (c.1936)Historic Royal Palaces
The fabric from the hem has then been used to add a waistband and side panels to the bodice to fit a growing child.
Dresses worn by Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret (c. 1936)Historic Royal Palaces
The dresses have delicate frills and a fine gauze overlay on the collar, sleeves and pockets. Though the dresses are in good condition, they underwent conservation to prepare them for display. Textile conservator Katica Laza explains the steps she took in the following video.
What Queen Elizabeth II's Baby Clothes Reveal about Royal ChildhoodHistoric Royal Palaces
Pair of children's dresses (1840-49)Historic Royal Palaces
The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection also holds other pairs of dresses worn by royal siblings. This pair was worn by two of Queen Victoria's daughters. Browse the collection to discover more royal childrenswear.
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