What To Know
- A discreet touch of her handbag would signal to her lady-in-waiting to intervene in a conversation or to move on to the next engagement.
- The Queen’s handbag choices were a testament to her impeccable style and her ability to navigate the complexities of royal life with grace and purpose.
- As we remember the Queen’s legacy, her handbags will forever remain a symbol of her enduring elegance and her lasting impact on the world.
For decades, the late Queen Elizabeth II was a global style icon, her every outfit meticulously planned and executed. One element that consistently captured attention was her choice of handbags. These weren’t just accessories; they were integral to her public image, adding a touch of elegance and practicality to her regal persona. But who made the Queen’s handbags? This question has fascinated fashion enthusiasts and royal watchers alike, sparking endless curiosity about the artisans behind these iconic pieces.
The Reign of Launer London
The most prominent name associated with the Queen’s handbags is Launer London, a British luxury leather goods company established in 1940. The brand became synonymous with the Queen’s style, with her patronage dating back to the 1950s. Launer’s elegant and timeless designs, characterized by their structured silhouettes and impeccable craftsmanship, perfectly complemented the Queen’s wardrobe.
A Royal Partnership: More Than Just a Brand
The relationship between the Queen and Launer London wasn‘t merely a commercial one; it was a genuine partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. The Queen’s loyalty to Launer was unwavering, and the brand reciprocated with its dedication to providing her with the highest quality handbags. Launer even created a special line of handbags named “The Royal Collection” in honor of the Queen’s patronage.
Beyond Launer: The Queen’s Other Handbag Choices
While Launer was undoubtedly the most favored brand, the Queen wasn‘t afraid to experiment with other designers. Occasionally, she would be seen carrying handbags from brands like:
- Asprey: Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious designs, Asprey provided the Queen with a selection of elegant handbags, including a distinctive black crocodile skin bag with a silver clasp.
- Hermes: The French luxury brand Hermes, renowned for its iconic Birkin and Kelly bags, also graced the Queen’s arm on several occasions. These bags, known for their timeless elegance and exceptional quality, were a testament to the Queen’s discerning taste.
- Mulberry: This British brand, known for its contemporary designs and high-quality leather, also made its way into the Queen’s handbag collection. Mulberry’s handbags, often featuring vibrant colors and intricate details, added a touch of modern flair to the Queen’s wardrobe.
The Queen’s Handbag: More Than Just an Accessory
The Queen’s handbags weren‘t just fashion statements; they served a practical purpose in her public life. Her choice of handbag often communicated subtle signals to those around her.
- The Handbag Switch: The Queen was known for switching handbags during official engagements. This seemingly simple act was a strategic move to signal to her aides that she was ready to move on to the next event.
- The Handbag as a Communication Tool: The Queen’s handbag was also used to communicate with her staff. A discreet touch of her handbag would signal to her lady-in-waiting to intervene in a conversation or to move on to the next engagement.
The Legacy of the Queen’s Handbags
The Queen’s handbag choices had a lasting impact on the fashion world. Her unwavering loyalty to Launer London helped elevate the brand to international acclaim, solidifying its position as a purveyor of fine craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Beyond Launer, the Queen’s willingness to explore other brands demonstrated her appreciation for diverse design styles and her ability to remain a style icon for generations.
A Timeless Style: The Queen’s Handbag Legacy
The Queen’s handbag choices were a testament to her impeccable style and her ability to navigate the complexities of royal life with grace and purpose. Her handbags were not merely accessories; they were extensions of her personality, reflecting her commitment to tradition, her appreciation for fine craftsmanship, and her unwavering sense of style. As we remember the Queen’s legacy, her handbags will forever remain a symbol of her enduring elegance and her lasting impact on the world.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Did the Queen only carry Launer handbags?
While Launer London was the Queen’s most favored brand, she occasionally carried handbags from other designers like Asprey, Hermes, and Mulberry.
2. What was the significance of the Queen’s handbag switch?
The Queen’s handbag switch was a subtle signal to her aides that she was ready to move on to the next engagement.
3. How did the Queen use her handbag to communicate with her staff?
The Queen used discreet touches of her handbag to signal to her lady-in-waiting to intervene in a conversation or to move on to the next engagement.
4. What is the “Royal Collection” by Launer?
The “Royal Collection” is a special line of handbags created by Launer London in honor of the Queen’s patronage.
