The Modern Monarch

Artist: unknown
http://www.trendhunter.com/slideshow/marie-antoinette-inspired#8

This is an excellent image to provide inspiration for a contemporary Elizabethan look. It is evident from many of the elements in the photo that this is a representation of Queen Elizabeth I herself. Firstly the most obvious factors are the orange hair and pale skin - Elizabeths most famous assets, however their are also other links to the monarch, such as the orb and sceptre in the sitters hands. These appeared in many of the paintings of Elizabeth and are a direct reference to the monarchy. 

However what I like most about this picture is the contemporary references to the Queens status. The sitter is surrounded by chess pieces, herself representing the Queen. This is what really captured my attention about the image and is something I, myself, would not have thought to include when referencing the Queen.