Queen Victoria’s love for nautical fashion, sparked by a miniature sailor suit for her son, Prince Albert Edward, in 1846, has left a lasting impact on royal style. This trend, which swept through Victorian and Edwardian society, continues to influence royal fashion even today, with Princes William and Harry, and even Diana, Princess of Wales, embracing the nautical aesthetic.
Queen Victoria established a unique tradition within the British royal family: a fondness for nautical-inspired clothing. This legacy began in 1846 when she commissioned a miniature sailor’s uniform for her young son, Prince Albert Edward. The trend quickly caught on, becoming a Victorian craze and influencing the fashion choices of royals and aristocrats throughout the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. The tradition continued through the 20th century, with Princess Diana embracing sailor outfits for her sons, Princes William and Harry, in the 1980s. Today, Princess Charlotte echoes the style of her grandmother and great-grandmother, showcasing the enduring legacy of Queen Victoria’s nautical fashion.
