Queen Elizabeth II Makes Rare Appearance at Fashion Week Sat Next to Anna Wintour

Monarch awarded designer Richard Quinn the first “Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design”

Queen Elizabeth II
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Beatrice Verhoeven, PWS

Queen Elizabeth II made a rare appearance at London Fashion Week on Tuesday, the first time the monarch has attended such an event.

According to the Associated Press, the Queen sat next to American Vogue editor Anna Wintour in the first row of Richard Quinn’s fashion show. Quinn is a recent fashion graduate of Central Saint Martins art school in London, who is quickly becoming one of the most talented young British designers.

Additionally, Queen Elizabeth gave Quinn the first “Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design,” according to the AP. She addressed the crowd on the catwalk and said, “from the tweed of the Hebrides to Nottingham lace, and, of course, Carnaby Street, our fashion industry has been renowned for outstanding craftsmanship for many years, and continues to produce world-class textiles and cutting edge, practical designs.”

She added, “As a tribute to the industry, and as my legacy to all those who have contributed to British fashion, I would like to present this award for new, young talent.”

The 91-year-old queen wore an egg blue ensemble adorned with Swarovski crystals, with black gloves to match. It was the first time in her 65 years on the throne that she attended any event related to Fashion Week, according to Us Magazine.

The Royal Family’s twitter account tweeted on Tuesday, “The Queen watched Richard Quinn’s show from the front row @LondonFashionWk #LFW before presenting him with his award. Each year a designer will be selected by the @BFC, in collaboration with the Royal Household, to be recognized.”

The account also shared other pictures and facts about the Queen’s rare appearance.

See tweets from the Royal Family’s Twitter account below.

Beatrice Verhoeven, PWS

Beatrice Verhoeven

Film Editor, Twitter: @bverhoev

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