Queen Camilla will wear a Robe of Estate covered with symbolism for the Coronation.
Her Majesty has chosen floral motifs for her new robe as a reflection of her own and The King’s long held interest in the environment and the natural world. The emblems have been worked in gold on the purple silk velvet train.
The flowers represented include lily of the valley which Queen Camilla carried in her wedding bouquet. It was also a favourite flower of Queen Elizabeth II and has been included as a tribute to Her Late Majesty.
There is another personal touch as delphiniums are also depicted on the robe. These are a favourite flower of King Charles III. They are also the flower of July, the month in which Queen Camilla was born.
Country garden flowers are also included. Lady’s Mantles, otherwise known as Alchemilla Mollis, grows profusely in England in spring and summer and has a long rooted religious association. Maidenhair Fern, symbolising purity, is shown as are cornflowers which denote love and tenderness.
In a Coronation first, the embroidery contains insects. Bees are included for their role in pollination and there is also a golden beetle on the robe. Beetles are often seen as a sign of strength, endurance and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The Robe of Estate is worn at the end of the Coronation for the final walk through Westminster Abbey and for the Procession to Buckingham Palace afterwards.
A Robe of State is worn at the beginning of the service. This is crimson and has less decoration. Queen Camilla will wear Queen Elizabeth’s Robe of State from 1953.
The Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla takes place on May 6 2023 at Westminster Abbey.
