#ELBookClub October 2021 pick
When I saw that this came up on the list for this month, I was really excited. While I typically lean towards audiobooks, this is one book I would most certainly suggest picking up a physical copy. The pages of HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style by Elizabeth Holmes is filled to the brim with some of the most beautiful photography and makes for a lovely display book as well.
I have long loved fashion, and certainly since Kate Middleton came on the scene, I have been more attracted particularly to British royalty in terms of style. I can’t say that I have particularly been obsessed with the royal family as many are, but I will say that I have been long an admirer of British culture in the midst of my love for all things travel. I remember where I was when we learned of princess Diana’s death, the significance of William and Kates wedding, and the ensuing media drama that has followed Harry and Megan as well.
But mostly, I have been in all of Kate’s ability to look effortlessly put together – classic and elegant all in one without looking stuffy, unapproachable, or avant-garde. And I mean, I think we can all agree that she is #HairGoals.
Your style in fashion is certainly a statement regardless of whether or not you were married to someone within the monarchy. Whether or not paparazzi is following you around inquiring about the designer of your dress, who and what you wear is often times an indicator of what you stand for.
Not to mention the designer or brand on the tag, the overall look conveys a message as well. Athleisure is meant for comfort and mobility. Sparkles for a special occasion. Higher neck lines and longer hem lines convey modesty or conservatism, while the opposite can often call into question someone’s moral compass. When you choose a designer or a brand to purchase from, whether consciously or not, you are supporting the mission they stand behind. By wearing that label, you are supporting their cause.
Outside the British monarchy, labels are often attached to status; with designer brands signifying success often times rather than fast fashion that moves with trends. However moreover and in addition to status, you’re paying for quality when you choose to purchase from more well-known designers that are a bit pricier. When something is made well, with great products, it lasts far longer than when something is mass produced with low quality goods.
I found it really interesting throughout the book that Elizabeth brought to the forefront some of the political messages that were underlying some outfit choices of the royal women. The contrast between the queen, Diana, Kate, and Meagan are quite obvious as they are individual characters, however there is much the same between them when it comes to sending a message with their outfit choices. It really made me consider the message my own wardrobe makes.
Working in the clinical setting, my daily wardrobe consists mostly of scrubs these days, so when I wear “normal” clothes, I find myself returning to the items in my closet that not only look great, but that make me feel great. And not surprisingly, these pieces are the more classic items that I’ve had for longer and that are of higher quality. I find myself seeking to invest in fewer higher quality and versatile pieces of clothing, and keeping trendy “fast fashion” items limited to accessories and shoes that can be purchased as “big box” stores. It’s been quite fun diving deeper into the world of royal fashion and especially rethinking my own wardrobe!
I would definitely recommend this to any fashion lover, or any aficionado of British royalty. The photos alone are gorgeous, but Elizabeth’s words that accompany them make it all the more special.
