One of the world’s most revered women is about to mark another major milestone. As Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her 90th birthday Thursday, the world will be watching.
And Britain’s longest-reigning monarch — who stands out in her colorful coat dresses, hats and gloves — knows what works for her in the shoe department. The Queen’s footwear style is classic and elegant, and she often chooses black leather loafers with a small chunky heel that fit with most any outfit. She is also known for wearing the same pairs over and over, sometimes preferring to have them refreshed and reworked rather than acquire new shoes.
Over the years, the Queen has been loyal to a small group of brands, including Rayne, Anello & Davide and Stuart Weitzman.
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While she is traditional in her day-to-day shoe attire, the Queen has certainly been at the center of some big shoe moments during her life. She got married to Prince Philip in Rayne’s satin sandals — designed by Norman Hartnell — in 1947. (The Queen Mother was also a fan of Rayne and Princesses Margaret and Anne and wore the label for their wedding days, too.)
After her coronation day in 1953, the Queen embarked on a major royal tour over the next two years. According to “Rayne, Shoes for the Stars,” a book published last year, the tour required over 100 dress changes, and the royal’s shoe wardrobe was full of white Rayne pumps and sandals.
As she began wearing more bright hues, Rayne offered up more black, beige and brown designs that wouldn’t compete with her ready-to-wear. Even today, it’s clear that the Queen is more willing to experiment with her festive hats and amazing jewelry than her tried-and-true shoes.
