Queen Elizabeth II has died today at the age of 96. The Queen is reported to have passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Queen Elizabeth reigned for an unprecedented 70 years as Brittan’s Head of State. With the death of Queen Elizabeth comes the end of an era in which Britain was defined by the image of Her Royal Majesty in brightly colored hats and matching suits, surrounded by her beloved corgis. The royal family released a statement earlier this afternoon via Instagram, 

“The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.” 

Flags have been lowered to half-mass. She is mourned internationally both as a political and fashion icon. With the passing of Queen Elizabeth Prince Charles automatically assumes the throne as King and his second wife, Camilla Duchess of Cornwall is given the title of  Queen Consort. News regarding the altered status of Prince William Duke of Cambridge has yet to be released from the royal family, though many assume that Prince Charles would step aside and allow his oldest son to take the throne, no such announcement has been made by the Royal Family or the Palace.