Queen Elizabeth Sets a Fashion in Paris

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23145, 17 September 1938, Page 5 (Supplement)

Queen Elizabeth Sets a Fashion in Paris

r rHE all-wliito wardrobe, chosen by 1 Qffeen Elizabeth for the State visit to France created a vogue in Paris which is likely to cycle the world in feminine appeal as the summer season comes round. Originally selected as a means of observing mourning for the death of her mother, this effective colour theme showed off to perfection the exquisite colouring and texture of the Queen's complexion. Of all the fetes, balls and gala occasions arranged in honour of the Royal visitors none was more spectacular in the manifestation of dramatic display than the gala opera night. The scarlet ribbon of the Legion of Honour draped across the corsage of the Queen's gown

was an accent of the King's brilliant uniform, and as the IJoyal couple and their retinue descended the wide marble staircase of the opera, preceded by lackevs in black and silver, carrying lighted candlebra, the effect was one of such regal splendour and pageantry as to inspire cheer upon cheer from the awaiting audience. It is said that the style of the Queen's crinoline-skirted gown of the Wintorhalter typo was suggested by the King himself from a period portrait. J lade of duehesse satin, the gown had draped panniers carried out with rows and rows of silver .Valenciennes lace which was re-embroidered with glittering diamonds and silver sequins. Sparkling sequins, likewise trimmed the off-the-shouldor decolletago, which had a finely-pleated bertha collar of white tulle. With this the Queen wore magnificent diamonds and carried a white ostrich boa. Tho outstanding features of the Queen's wardrobe, as created by the London designer, Norman Hartnell, apart from the preference for white,

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were the repeated uSS of lace, ostrich plumes and fresh flower sprays. One ball-gown was scattered here and there on the voluminous skirt with the whitest of camellias. As is invariably the case when certain fashions receive constant favour in the eyes of smart Royalty, these are all decided indications of the styles that will "highlight" the coming season in New Zealand. —Niki of Paris.