The queen has arrived — at London fashion week.
For what was reportedly her first fashion show, Queen Elizabeth II sat front row next to fashion’s own royalty, Anna Wintour (officially dubbed Dame Anna, as of June 2017).
For the historic moment, the monarch remained true to her classic aesthetic: a pale blue skirt suit trimmed with Swarovski crystals.
The show didn’t exactly match her ladylike look, though: The designer, Richard Quinn, sent models down the runway in neon prints from London’s Liberty department store (where the show was held), parachute-shaped frocks, floor-length puffer coats, scarf-print handbags and printed face masks.
Still, Her Majesty appeared delighted by Quinn’s presentation — enough to present the 28-year-old designer with the Inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design, an accolade for young, new talent in the industry.
But just who is this queen-approved couturier, anyway? Here are four things to know about new design darling Richard Quinn.
1. He’s only 28 years old
Quinn, who graduated from Central Saint Martins in London in 2016 and launched his label the same year, has already been recognized by fashion behemoth H&M, who awarded the young designer with the H&M Design Award 2017. His collection for the brand hit stores in October 2017.
2. He’s a fave of Lady Gaga’s
While on her “Joanne” tour, the stylish singer took to the stage in Quinn’s oversize hot-pink floral coat — complete with the now-ubiquitous ’80s shoulder pads.
3. He has a flair for the dramatic . . . and risqué
London-based designers are known for mishmashing unexpected sartorial elements. Quinn is no exception: His penchant for pairing bold floral dresses with S&M-inspired face masks is both unexpected and badass.
4. His threads are shoppable — but they’ll cost you
A pair of multimedia tights are going for nearly $600, while his satin off-shoulder gowns are upward of $2,500 — get ’em (while you can) at MatchesFashion.com.