The Queen broke from tradition by not wearing a crown and ceremonial dress at the State Opening of Parliament

• The Queen didn't wear a crown or ceremonial robes at the State Opening of Parliament.
• This was in line with the reduction of ceremonial aspects of the event due to the pandemic.
• It isn't the first time the monarch has broken tradition with her outfit.

Queen Elizabeth II broke from tradition by not wearing the Imperial State Crown or ceremonial robes at the State Opening of Parliament on Tuesday.

Her Majesty wore a lilac hat and matching coat instead of traditional dress, in line with the government's decision to reduce ceremonial elements of the event due to the coronavirus pandemic, outlined on the UK Parliament's website.

The State Opening of Parliament held at the House of Lords marks the formal start of the parliamentary year, where the monarch delivers a speech outlining the government's future plans.

The crown still made an appearance, however, as it was taken to the event separately and placed on a table in the House of Lords as the Queen gave her speech.

This marks the monarch's first engagement outside Windsor Castle since her husband Prince Philip died on April 9, Daily Mail royal editor Rebecca English reports. It was also her first televised event since his funeral.

The monarch was accompanied by Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

It isn't the first time the Queen has opted out of traditional dress at the event.

Most recently, the Queen wore a day dress and hat instead of a crown and ceremonial robes at the State Opening of Parliament in December 2019.

"Due to unique circumstances of the general election and the proximity to Christmas, the State Opening of Parliament will take place with reduced ceremonial elements," a statement on the UK Parliament website explained at the time.

Buckingham Palace did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.