One of Queen Elizabeth’s Most Iconic Looks Was Made Popular Again Decades Later by Charli XCX
There’s one color that’s synonymous with British pop star Charli XCX and that’s “brat green.” The lime green shade was all over the internet in 2024 thanks to the singer’s “Brat” album cover. The cultural influence of “Brat” green was born along with the hashtags and new search terms “Brat summer,” “Brat girl summer,” and “Royal brat treatment.”
Speaking of royals, Queen Elizabeth II was a fan of the bold green color herself. She wore it on several occasions, long before “Brat green summer” was a thing. And according to a fashion expert, one green dress she sported at a major royal event decades ago became one of her most iconic looks.
Queen Elizabeth wore the striking color to a major event in 1973
Lauren Bulla is a fashion journalist who has been featured in The Independent, The Cold Magazine, New Wave Magazine, and many more. She recently became the Fashion Editor of Groupie Magazine, where she has revamped their fashion offering, notably providing in-depth, on-the-ground coverage of New York, Paris, London, Berlin, and Copenhagen fashion weeks.
Speaking on behalf of Fruity King, Bulla told Showbiz Cheat Sheet: “In 1973, Queen Elizabeth wore this light green coat dress, which falls into the same family as chartreuse green. That shade has made a big comeback, first in summer 2024 and then again in summer 2025, largely thanks to Charli XCX.
“I just think it’s a really fun connection, even though it’s totally unrelated, the color itself is vibrant and punchy, and there’s a through-line there that I find delightful.”
Speaking specifically about the late queen‘s outfit, Bulla noted, “The outfit was interesting not only because of the color but also because of its design. It featured these beautiful inlaid oval details along the sleeves and at the hem of the overcoat.
“It struck me as both refined and surprisingly youthful. The monochrome circular buttons went only halfway down the front, which is very reminiscent of 1970s trends, but it was clearly elevated for the Royal Ascot setting.”
Other iconic Royal Ascot looks over the years
The fashion writer also shared some of her other favorite looks from the Royal Ascot over the years including one worn by the Princess of Wales (formerly known as Kate Middleton).
“In 2019, Kate wore a stunning powder blue ensemble with layered mesh and delicate embroidery,” Bulla said, adding, “The fluttering layers and her signature oversized bow were standout elements. It’s fascinating to see that she was already leaning into this styling back in 2019, considering how often we’ve seen similar silhouettes and details in her more recent looks. It shows a continuous stylistic thread through her wardrobe.
“Her hat also stood out, it paid homage to the dramatic accessory tradition of the Royal Ascot, but in a more understated way. It was pressed close to her head, tilted slightly sideways and upwards, and adorned with ornamental floral details. A beautiful, balanced look.”
Bulla was also a big fan of one of the late Princess Diana‘s Royal Ascot outfits in 1986.
“Of course, I had to include a Princess Diana look. The one that stood out most was from 1986. She wore this ultra-chic, all-white ensemble,” Bulla recalled. “That was both striking and elegant. It was paired with light brown-trimmed pumps and a handheld clutch. The whole look was quiet glamour at its finest, refined yet compelling.
“Her jacket had a peplum detail that flattered the tapered skirt, and a sharp V-neck that was emphasized by a centralized row of fabric-covered buttons. The slightly puffed, almost mutton-style sleeves complemented the shape beautifully. She finished the look with a wide-brimmed hat featuring a shallow crown. The slightly shimmery fabric also added a lovely, subtle finish to the outfit.”
