In a remarkable display of royal heritage, the historic christening robe worn by sixty-two royal babies, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, is set to be exhibited publicly for the very first time. This delicate 185-year-old garment, meticulously restored by textile conservationists, will take centre stage in the upcoming "Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style" exhibition at The King's Gallery in Buckingham Palace, opening next month.
A Garment Steeped in Royal History
The cream silk robe, crafted from Spitalfields silk sourced in east London and adorned with exquisite Honiton lace from Devon, boasts an illustrious lineage. It was first worn in 1841 by Princess Victoria, the eldest child of Queen Victoria. Since then, it has been carefully passed down through generations of the royal family, serving as a sacred garment for infant christenings.
The Queen's Early Connection
Princess Elizabeth, the future Queen Elizabeth II, was christened in this very robe in May 1926 when she was merely one month old. This event marked the beginning of her lifelong association with the garment, which she would later champion as a symbol of British craftsmanship. Other notable royals who wore the robe include King Charles III in 1948, and Princes William and Harry during their own christenings.
Meticulous Restoration Efforts
Textile conservationists have dedicated over one hundred hours to painstakingly restore the fragile robe to a condition suitable for public display. Cecilia Oliver, one of the specialists involved in the restoration, revealed fascinating details about its care. "The robe has been lovingly cared for over the generations," she noted. "We even discovered a note on its original box instructing that it be washed in natural spring water after each use, which undoubtedly contributed to its remarkable preservation despite frequent use over nearly two centuries."
However, after 185 years and sixty-two christenings, the gown required significant conservation work to stabilise its delicate fabrics. Due to its increasing fragility, the late Queen commissioned her dresser, Angela Kelly, in 2004 to create an exact replica. This replica has been used for all royal christenings since, including those of the children of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Exhibition Highlights and Royal Traditions
The exhibition, featuring two hundred items from the late monarch's fashion archive—the largest such collection ever staged—will showcase the christening robe alongside other significant artefacts. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to view a handwritten note by Queen Elizabeth II, recording some of the royal babies who wore the robe, a tradition initiated by her grandmother, Queen Mary.
Additionally, the display will include the complete christening ensemble: a bonnet, a silk satin shawl, a sash, and delicate bows and ribbons embroidered with national emblems, all traditionally worn for royal christening ceremonies. This comprehensive presentation offers an intimate glimpse into the ceremonial traditions of the British monarchy.
Curatorial Insights and Public Access
Caroline de Guitaut, the exhibition's curator, emphasised the robe's profound significance. "The christening robe was the most important garment worn by Princess Elizabeth in her infancy and stands as an exceptional example of British craftsmanship—something Queen Elizabeth championed throughout her life," she stated. "As the earliest piece of clothing worn by the Queen, and by so many royal babies before and after her, it holds a very special place in her wardrobe. We are thrilled to share it with the public in this centenary year of her birth."
The "Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style" exhibition will be open to the public at The King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace, from April 10 to October 18, 2026, providing an unprecedented opportunity to witness this iconic piece of royal history.
