As we reflect on the legacy of the monarch, these are the beauty brands that served the Royal Household throughout her reign

Throughout the seven decades of her reign, Queen Elizabeth II's presence as a British style icon was undeniable. The late monarch’s signature look was instantly recognisable: vibrant monochrome skirt sets, strings of sophisticated pearls and, of course, an unforgettable array of striking hats.

While these iconic fashion moments have been captured through the countless portraits of her life, an element of mystery remains around the Queen’s relationship with beauty products. For example, we know that Her Majesty’s nails were often painted with Essie’s barely-there polish Ballet Slippers; the Queen’s hairdresser requested the shade from the brand’s founder in 1989. Regularly seen sporting a bright lip, we know that the Sovereign didn't shy from bold yet classic hues; the timeless red lipstick worn during her coronation was reportedly a bespoke shade created by French cosmetics brand, Clarins. However, the most notable clues about the monarch's beauty routine come from the brands she granted a 'Royal Warrant of Appointment'.

Previously awarded by the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the Prince of Wales – now King Charles III – a Royal Warrant of Appointment is granted to individuals or companies who regularly supply goods or services to the Royal Household – from candlemakers to perfumers and individual hairdressers. The warrant allows the holder the right to display the Royal Arms on their product and packaging, usually for up to five years. The Queen granted 686 Royal Warrants during her reign, but what will happen to the brands recognised by Her Majesty following her death?

Royal Warrants are typically reviewed the year before they are due to expire, however, when the reigning Sovereign dies, the warrants awarded by the grantor, Queen Elizabeth II in this instance, become void. The company must cease its use of the coat of arms over the following two years, unless the warrant was granted by the succeeding monarch. Of the following list, there are only two brands we can assume will maintain their Royal Warrant following Her Majesty’s death: Penhaligon's and Floris. This is because their warrants were awarded by King Charles III.

From the bespoke lipstick worn during her 1953 crowning, matched perfectly to the ruby red in her gown, to the Platinum Jubilee Hand and Nail Duo that launched just this year, the Queen’s relationship with Clarins reigned strong for 70 years.

When it comes to Her Majesty’s make-up we think of softly powdered skin and a flattering pink or red lip. Although her favourite shades have never been named, rumour has it that the prestigious Elizabeth Arden brand has long been supplying them.

Beyond Buckingham Palace, Molton Brown is a beloved British brand. Delightful fragrances captured in luxurious formulas; it comes as no surprise that this popular label was honoured by the Royal Household.

Named Court Barber and Royal Perfumer to Queen Victoria, Penhaligon’s has always maintained a close connection to the Royal Court. As its most recent warrant was awarded by Prince Charles Wales in 1988, we expect this isn’t a relationship that will end any time soon – especially seeing as His Highness helped create a new scent with the fragrance house, Highgrove Bouquet, which pays tribute to fragrant summers at Highgrove Garden.

Another British perfumery brand with a regal history, Floris received its first Royal Warrant as Smooth Pointed Comb Maker for The King George IV. Founded in 1720, Floris is the oldest English retailer of fragrance, still holding a Royal Warrant for Perfumery today. The company continues to be run by the descendants of founder, Juan Famenias Floris.

The Royal Warrants honoured by the Queen throughout her reign were not limited to skincare and scents. Kent’s high-quality range of hair, body and make-up brushes has been approved by the palace across nine consecutive reigns.

Hailing itself “makers of the best soap in the world since 1884”, Bronnley is among the shortlist of luxury heritage brands that we know supplies to the royal bathrooms. With quintessentially English scents and thoughtful formulations, this is a richly British company with a royal seal of approval.