After hoops were discarded in 1820, ladies' court dress became much more elegant and fashionable. Velvet Court Dress. Old Style, c 1901. Other items of dress have been preserved by the Royal Family because they are associated with significant moments in the life of the wearer. The most impressive items are the coronation robes, each a skilful blend of splendid decoration, formality, fossilisation and fashion.
Dress worn by royal brides reflects to a much greater degree the fashions of the period.
Royal ladies have used such opportunities to promote the best of British craft, whether it be in the production of special textiles, fine lace or commissioning designs from a leading couturier or even aspiring student at art school. Dress worn on less formal occasions has survived because the skills which went into its manufacture were particularly admired. Each monarch has had favourite designers who would produce dress to suit their taste, and which was practical and suitable for the occasion. Bright colours might be used so that the wearer could be easily seen. Nothing was too short or long.