The Queen of fashion

There's been a lot of talk in recent days about a new fashion battle between the Duchess of Cambridge and Letizia, soon to be Queen of Spain as the current Princess of Asturias takes on a much higher profile globally as he husband takes the throne.  But both women have lost this week's chic contest.  And by a long way.  The Queen wore not one but three knockout outfits she made her way to Paris for a state visit.  Tres, tres, tres chic.

The Queen at the Elysee Palace in Paris on June 5th 2014 on a State Visit to France

Elizabeth II began her day at St Pancras station where she took the Eurostar to Paris to begin her State Visit.  And for that part of her day, which included a meeting with the train's staff, she chose a white coat with navy hat which set the pace for a day of royal fashion excellence.

All white to start the day - the Queen at St Pancras station in London

But just a few hours later, after zooming through the tunnel beneath the Channel, the Queen was in Paris and in a white lace effect dress with a black and white hat.  Elizabeth II was met by officials and diplomats as she began her State Visit to France.

The Queen in Paris - chic flowers, chic royal fashion

But the star outfit appeared not long after that as the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh arrived at the Elysee Palace to greet President Hollande.  Elizabeth II stepped from her car and on to the red carpet in a pink suit with matching hat that simply stunned.  

Pink for Paris - the Queen, Francois Hollande and the Duke of Edinburgh

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh had lunch with the President of France after an audience.  Later, the President accompanied his royal visitors to the Arc de Triomphe where they laid a wreath.

The Queen and President Hollande of France at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider at theArc de Triomphe in Paris

Elizabeth II has been the most constant feature of royalty in Europe for over sixty years but she has also produced some surprises - like taking part in a James Bond sketch to help open the London Olympics.  And today, the Queen surprised us all again.  Because just as royal watchers were gearing up for a debate about Kate and Letizia's fashion battles, Elizabeth II showed everyone just how royal chic should be done.  After 63 years on the throne, at the age of 88, the Queen is still showing the younger generation how it's done.