Dressing the Queen

byKate Strasdin

The craftspeople behind the royal wardrobe

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‘The pages positively teem with fascinating, until-now-hidden detail... Strasdin’s book is as much a social history of our country as a history of fashion’ Daily Mail

The untold story of the people who designed, sewed, stitched and steamed the clothes of Britain’s queens.

Between tours, walkabouts and the dazzling spectacle of a wedding or coronation, the clothes worn by royal women have always been a fascination. Starting with Queen Victoria and moving to the modern Elizabethan age, Dressing the Queen shows the incredible craftmanship that goes into the making of what is known as the ‘Royal Wardrobe’: from handmade boots to Crown Jewels, country tweeds to delicate stockings.

Amid renowned names like Norman Hartnell or Louis Vuitton, dress historian Kate Strasdin reveals a tribe of previously unsung women and men. Ordinary, highly talented working people from across the British Isles, their skilled labour is a vital part of our country’s history.

As we see modern princesses don fantastically arranged ensembles, we are reminded of the vanishing trades that once employed millions – and remain integral to royal life today.

‘A must for fans of royal and fashion history’ Tracy Borman

‘A truly wonderful and fascinating book’ Lady Anne Glenconner

'Very clever and interesting ... I enjoyed the book enormously, such a good idea to focus on the talented people who made and looked after the beautiful clothes, shoes and bags for various Queens. A truly wonderful and fascinating book!'

Lady Anne Glenconner, author of Lady in Waiting

About Kate Strasdin

Kate Strasdin is a dress historian who has been fascinated by old clothes since she was a child. She is a lecturer in Cultural Studies at Falmouth University and is a freelance consultant for dress and textile exhibitions. Her previous book, The Dress Diary of Mrs Anne Sykes unlocked the secrets of a previously unknown Victorian woman’s wardrobe. She lives in Devon with her husband and two children.
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Details
  • Imprint: Vintage
  • ISBN: 9781529968064
  • Length: 336 pages
  • Price: £12.99
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