The Legacy of Queen Elizabeth's Hats: Storage, Display, and Future

Queen Elizabeth, the late Queen of the United Kingdom and fifteen other Commonwealth realms, had an impressive collection of hats, each representing a unique style, era, and occasion. These headpieces played a significant role in her public appearances, making her wardrobe one of the most recognized and among the most photographed. How many hats did Queen Elizabeth have, and what will happen to them now that she is gone? This article explores the fate of these iconic accessories, their storage, and future displays.

Storage and Conservation of Queen Elizabeth's Hats

Angela Kelly, former stylist to both The Queen and The Princess Royal, is responsible for the curation of the late Queen's wardrobe. Despite her retirement, Kelly is expected to continue overseeing the preservation of these valuable pieces. The hats will be stored in a secure and controlled environment, ensuring their longevity and preservation. The utmost care will be taken to maintain the condition of these historically significant items.

Hats as Museum Pieces or Titled Displays

There are several possibilities for the future of Queen Elizabeth's hats. They could be displayed in a museum alongside her outfits, providing an insight into the period of history she graced. The Royal Collection Trust, which maintains the Queen's collection, may also choose to display these hats during public tours of Buckingham Palace, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and design of these headpieces. Alternatively, the hats may remain within the Royal household, residing in the private collection of the current and future monarchs.

Recycling and Reuse of Hats

While many of Queen Elizabeth's hats have already been re-used or re-covered for various outfits, there may still be a portion that is no longer fit for wear. The Royal Collection and its management team will take action to recycle and reuse the materials from these hats. This approach aligns with the Royal Family's commitment to sustainability and responsible management of resources. Broken, old, or damaged hats will be collected, and their materials will be repurposed.

The Future of Hats at Buckingham Palace

The decision on where and how Queen Elizabeth's hats will be displayed is ultimately up to the decision-makers at the Royal Household. It is highly unlikely that they will be sold for private collections. Instead, they will be stored in a secure location and displayed during tours or special events at Buckingham Palace. This ensures that the public can still appreciate these iconic accessories without compromising their integrity.

Disposal of Hats: Mass Cremation vs. Donation

There is a myth surrounding the disposal of these hats, suggesting that they may be subjected to mass cremation or donated to charities. However, these suggestions are far from reality. Given the historical and cultural significance of these items, burning them is neither sensible nor respectful. Similarly, donating them to charities for auction would not be a viable option, as they are of great value and should be preserved for future generations.

It is more likely that the hats will be placed in storage at Hatfield House, the Royal Family's historic country house and conservation center, to be used for costume displays when the house is open to the public. This approach allows the public to see and appreciate these accessories in a meaningful way, while also ensuring their preservation.

Conclusion

The legacy of Queen Elizabeth's hats is complex and multifaceted. From their storage and conservation to future displays, these headpieces represent a significant part of the Royal Family's history and culture. As we reflect on the late Queen's life and the items she wore, it is essential to honor the tradition and significance of these accessories, ensuring their preservation for future generations to appreciate.

References:

Wells, J. A. (2023). The Royal Collection: A guide to the art and treasures of the British monarchy. Thames Hudson. David, T. (2022). Queen Elizabeth's wardrobe and its impact on fashion. Vogue, 160(4). Smith, M. (2021). The future of royal collections: A sustainable approach. The Guardian.