A CELEBRATIONOF ENDURING LEGACY
1926–2022
“It is the greatest recognition for Launer to have been associated with Queen Elizabeth for more than fifty years, and a true testament to British craftsmanship.”
GERALD BODMER. CEO AND OWNER – LAUNER LONDON
Queen Elizabeth reigned with extraordinary dignity and grace for a remarkable 70 years, the longest-reigning British monarch. It is fitting that tribute is paid to her, on what would have been her 100th birthday, an event marked by celebrations throughout the nation.
Her monarchy began at the tender age of 25 in 1952, she stepped into a role steeped in history, expectation and global scrutiny. Her reign was a masterclass in quiet power, steady leadership and timeless elegance.
Through the evolution of change, Queen Elizabeth II became a symbol of constancy. Her devotion to duty never wavered – she opened parliaments, crossed continents, met presidents and popes, and attended thousands of public engagements with the same composed humility. She was seen as the embodiment of service: dutiful and discreet.
Taken in 1959 in the grounds of Windsor Castle, this quietly composed portrait captures Queen Elizabeth II alongside the Duke of Edinburgh, accompanied by one of her beloved corgis – an enduring symbol of her private life within a public role.
For those in the Commonwealth, she was the unifying figure linking diverse nations across oceans and generations. Her presence wasn’t loud or theatrical; it was calm, reassuring, and unshakeable, a quiet heartbeat that endured through wars, crises, and cultural revolutions.
She was a global icon, the most famous woman in the world. Behind the immaculate posture and polished pearls was a woman with a dry wit, a deep love for animals, and a mischievous sparkle in her eyes. Her corgis became as much royal icons as her tiaras. She loved the countryside, rode horses well into her nineties, and had an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures – a picnic or a walk.
Taken on 1 April 2009 at Buckingham Palace, this warm and historic moment captures Queen Elizabeth II greeting First Lady Michelle Obama, with President Barack Obama just behind, during the U.S. state visit to the United Kingdom.
“Her Majesty's handbag was a key element of her wardrobe and now her style legacy. There's no doubting that Launer bags were her favourite.”
Naomi Pike, Fashion Journalist and Editor
Queen Elizabeth II turned fashion into diplomacy and visibility into art, her style: instantly recognisable, utterly her own, and subtly brilliant. Queen Elizabeth II turned fashion into diplomacy and visibility into art. Her signature looks – vividly coloured coats, perfectly matched hats, and elegant gloves – weren’t chosen for vanity but for symbolism. Each hue was selected to help the crowds catch sight of their queen; each jewel told a story of heritage or alliance. Her brooches, often chosen strategically for specific occasions, spoke in the unspoken language of regality.
Even her handbags became legendary – Launer designs that she carried everywhere. She created her own kind of timeless, regal fashion that bridged generations and echoed her philosophy: purposeful, graceful, never extravagant, yet memorably distinct. Launer received its Royal Warrant in 1968, formalising its relationship with the monarch, but the association had in fact, begun some years previously.
This image captures Queen Elizabeth II at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on 29 April 2011 at Westminster Abbey, one of the most significant royal occasions of the 21st century. Dressed in a soft pastel yellow ensemble with matching hat, the Queen embodies elegance and celebration, marking the union of Prince William and Catherine Middleton.
“She once told me she doesn’t feel dressed without a bag.”
GERALD BODMER – VOGUE
This elegant evening photograph captures Queen Elizabeth II alongside U.S. President Ronald Reagan during a state occasion at Windsor Castle in 1982, a moment that reflects the enduring diplomatic relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States. Dressed in a shimmering ivory gown adorned with delicate gold detailing, and wearing the Grand Duchess Vladimir Tiara, the Queen embodies the formality and splendour of state hospitality.
Through the decades the bags became symbolic, especially the Traviata, which is closely identified as an important and recognisable element of her royal style. These bags were beacons of trust and quiet luxury; visual symbols of exceptional craftsmanship. Queen Elizabeth was a committed supporter of British made goods and visited the Launer factory in 1991. She appreciated the heritage, handcrafted element and the meticulous work that went into each bag. Timeless craft that endured.
For the first time, the iconic eight bags that defined her reign, are presented in a dedicated collection, a celebration of an extraordinary and beloved Queen.
Queen Elizabeth II on an engagement in North Yorkshire, May 2010 where she visited the village of Cloughton and opened the newly refurbished Scarborough open air-theatre.
THE EIGHT STYLES OF THE COLLECTION
The eight iconic collection styles from left to right; Traviata, Faith, Turandot, Violetta, Sophia, Eleanor, Tosca and Madelaine.