British monarchy's fashion mantle passes to younger generation

FILE PHOTO: Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, holds her baby son outside the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital before leaving with Prince William, in central London July 23, 2013. REUTERS/John Stillwell/POOL/

PARIS/LONDON (Reuters) - The death of Queen Elizabeth II marks a shift in the relationship between fashion and the British monarchy, with younger members of the royal family, notably Catherine, Princess of Wales, likely taking on a greater public role.

The late queen had a precise fashion formula - elegant coats, trim hats and square-heeled shoes shaped her familiar silhouette, as well as her handbag, which became a symbol of stability.