King Charles III, at his coronation will wear the Robes de State and Robes d’Estate belonging to his grand-father.
His Majesty’s robes will be the same as those worn by George VI during his 1937 Coronation. The decision is a nod to his beloved grandfather – The King was extremely close to his grandparents. It is also in keeping with Charles III’s desire to make his reign and his Coronation as sustainable as possible.
The Monarch will wear the Robe of State when they arrive at Westminster Abbey, for the Coronation. The Robe of Estate, worn at the end of a ceremony for the final procession to the Abbey and departure is the Robe of Estate. This is the robe worn by the King in all official photographs and portraits of the Coronation.
King George VI’s Robe of State was made of crimson velvet, decorated with gold lace and trimmed with ermine, as is usual. The Royal School of Needlework conserved the velvet ahead of the Coronation of Charles, while Ede and Ravenscroft treated and looked after the lace and ermine.
The Robe of Estate, which will unite grandfather with grandson in the future, is made of purple velvet silk and is trimmed with ermine. Ede and Ravenscroft have preserved this historical garment for Charles III’s Coronation. They have been making robes since 1689.
The Robe of State can also be called the Parliament Robe. It is worn for other occasions, including the State Opening of Parliament. The Robe of Estate can also be called the Imperial Robe. This is because of its purple colour, which is the shade of emperors.
The Coronation will take place at Westminster Abbey on 6 May 2023.