In Pictures: Rarely seen snaps of Queen Elizabeth that prove 'steadfast' monarch was dynamic and glamorous
The Queen was a symbol of optimism in her youth
Over the years, Queen Elizabeth II has often been illustrated as the dutiful and reliable sovereign.
Her legacy is that of the longest reigning monarch. Consequently, many forget the lighter parts of her personality and the unique nature of her life.
Especially as a youthful queen.
These unearthed photos depict how Her Majesty wasn’t only “steadfast,” and sensible, she was shimmering and skilled.
Her schedule was teaming with some of the most glamorous events and not to mention a starlet-worthy wardrobe to ensure she could play the part.
Queen Elizabeth: Multi-faceted and skilled
When she was 18 in 1945, the then princess joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service.
The ATS was the women’s branch of the British Army. The princess boasted a plethora of practical skills during her service.
She was a driver and mechanic, even passing a military driving test and learning to repair engines.
The young queen was outgoing yet dignified
Later becoming one of the most photographed people in the world, the queen hasn’t always been snapped smiling through the decades.
In fact, often Her Majesty was seen with a more even expression.
Her photos sometimes lacked the charisma that other figures in the public eye were allowed to show.
However, upon the announcement of her engagement to Prince Philip in 1947, where the princess is pictured above, a more candid side of the princess is seen.
The 21-year-old princess looked radiant and appeared more mature and confident than in previous images of her alongside her royal relatives.
At the time, it was clear the princess was stepping into a new era of her life.
And of course, major changes were around the corner unbeknownst to the unsuspecting future queen.
The Windsor sisters were fun company
Queen Elizabeth has more often than not been described and portrayed as the duty-bound sister – a far cry away from her so called rebellious younger sibling.
Margaret has been known for her lavish social life, passionate affairs, dazzling smile and outgoing nature, with her own father even describing Margaret as his “joy” and Elizabeth as his “pride”.
Despite their seemingly contrasting behaviour, the two sisters were said to be close and unsurprisingly attended many of the same events.
Although Elizabeth wasn’t necessarily boisterous she was dignified and confident. She had a skill for making others feel comfortable regardless of their status.
In fact, the princess and later monarch wasn’t the boring or stuffy persona many presume she was. She and her party girl sister got along well together. They were said to be enjoyable company as a pair.
The duo famously partied together in London on the evening of May 8, 1945, now known as Victory in England day. This was reportedly a memorable evening for the queen.
The two were said to have danced the night away at The Ritz hotel.
The future queen was a symbol of optimism
Later down the line, Queen Elizabeth was known for her colourful, eye-catching style.
Likely so she would stand out as the sovereign amongst her many aides.
But once upon a time, she wore a slew of luxurious silk gowns.
Most were encrusted with sumptuous jewels and complemented by striking jewels – the kind only shown on the silver screen.
Her wedding dress, of course, went down in history for its stunning appearance. The princess wore a crystal encrusted, A-line ensemble.
It was inspired by Botticelli’s painting “Primavera” which included floral motifs like star lilies and orange blossoms.
The ivory silk gown designed by Norman Hartnell boasted a 15-foot-long train, 10,000 pearls and was said to have symbolised rebirth and growth following the Second World War.
It was undoubtedly a lavish display of optimism for post-war Britain and reflective of what the young princess would become to her subjects.
Queen Elizabeth when she was young
Elizabeth wasn’t only diplomatic and graceful, she could also be the life of the party. The monarch was said to have loved dancing.
She particularly enjoyed dances like the Galliard and the Volta.
Queen Elizabeth II was particularly fond of Scottish country dancing and fittingly hosted annual Ghillies’ Balls at Balmoral Castle.
The late queen boasted an enviable jewellery collection, reflected in the glamorous photograph (below) of her arriving at a reception held at The City Chamber in Glasgow, in 1951.
Over the years she accumulated 300 items of jewellery. Her collection included 98 brooches, 46 necklaces, 37 bracelets, 34 pairs of earrings, 20 tiaras, 15 rings, 14 watches and 5 pendants.
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s early union
Upon their engagement and subsequent marriage, Elizabeth and Philip were seen as a show-stopping couple.
Evidently, they were often photographed.
Even more attention was drawn to them when they were in the company of some of the world’s most sought after celebrities and public figures like Marilyn Monroe, John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy.
The queen wasn’t just a radiant and beautiful symbol, she was dutiful from the start and took pride in uniting the Commonwealth Nations whilst representing her country.
So, what do you think? Which photo of a young Queen Elizabeth is your favourite? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page.
