A momentous time has arrived for the British population, the once-in-a-lifetime occasion that is the Coronation of our new king, Charles III. Whether you're a loyal supporter of the royals or not, it's hard to deny that the 6th of May 2023 will be a historical day you'll want to remember - and what better way to do that than with some stylish coronation merch?
It is guaranteed that every Nan in the country has or had a piece of Elizabeth II coronation memorabilia in their house, as it's time to carry on the tradition as we move forward into the new era of the Windsors.
Because style rules all here at Closer Online, we've collated the best coronation merch from across the internet that is guaranteed not to be tacky. Yes, you heard that right, no weird cringy merchandise here. Only chic mugs, plates and accessories that you wouldn't mind displaying in your house for the foreseeable.
We scoured the online shopping world for the best of the best. This includes items from good ol' M&S, Harrods, John Lewis, Etsy and more. Whilst you're here, don't forget to stock up on some coronation decorations if you're having any house/street parties. Waitrose, for example, has a great coronation display collection at the moment.
But before all that, let's take a look at the best coronation merch you can buy online. They're ranked from lowest to highest price so you can snag an affordable piece of memorabilia that fits your budget. Everything listed below is under £40, so saving money couldn't be easier.
SHOP: The best coronation merch to celebrate King Charles III in 2023
argoswww.argos.co.uk
Starting off with our cheapest option for a piece of merch that you'll be able to use for years to come, we've got this stylish ceramic commemorative mug from Argos. Self-described by the site, it's a chance to "hold a little bit of history in your hands."
etsywww.etsy.com
Etsy is a great place to buy coronation merch that is uniquely designed by small businesses. For example, a great memorabilia gift to buy yourself, or friends, is a keyring like this one.
john lewiswww.johnlewis.com
If you're heading to a coronation picnic, pack your strawberries in style with this King Charles III tote bag from John Lewis. One review describes the bag as having "great colours and excellent quality. It is the perfect size as it has a flat base. I get so many compliments on it!"
waitrosewww.waitrose.com
A popular piece of coronation merch people tend to buy are tins, but we've got the best of both worlds here. Get the tin, and the shortbread inside it to snack on. Filled with all-butter plain Scottish shortbread, these treats are baked in the heart of the Highlands.
dunelmwww.dunelm.com
A fantastic choice from our favourite furniture shop, Dunelm, this piece of commemorative crockery will keep the tea rings off the tablecloth.
m&s collectionwww.marksandspencer.com
Is it even a royal occasion if you don't bag yourself a celebratory tea towel? Don't just settle for one - you can get this set of three cotton tea towels, featuring gorgeous coronation illustrations by Eleanor Tomlinson.
jd williamswww.jdwilliams.co.uk
Available in sizes 12 to 30, rep the crown in subtle style with this chic t-shirt that can be worn well after the Coronation of King Charles III.
not on the high streetwww.notonthehighstreet.com
A colourful addition to any cupboard, or shelf, this mug features the official emblem of King Charles' Coronation. Plus, it's dishwasher and microwave safe. Hallelujah.
dunelmwww.dunelm.com
A classic addition to anyone's royal memorabilia collection is a coronation plate. Ideal for displaying or using for cakes and bakes on the big day.
not on the high streetwww.notonthehighstreet.com
As a big fan of gardening and flowers himself, King Charles would certainly approve of this commemorative vase, made with a permanent laser engraving that won't fade away.
harrodswww.harrods.com
We're absolutely obsessed with how stunning this Harrods china mug is, part of the official Victoria Eggs collection for the Coronation.
m&swww.marksandspencer.com
Light-up cushions exist, and we couldn't be happier. Marks and Sparks are selling this fabulous cushion with detailed embroidery and beading, as well as little lights that shine from the church illustration.
darlingtonwww.dartington.co.uk
A coronation street party calls for a drop or more of champagne, right? This set of two flutes, made with a champagne glass, is engraved with the Royal Cyphers.
etsywww.etsy.com
Want some coronation merch that is truly unique? These hand-knitted beefeater gnomes are adorable decorations that'll catch everyone's eye. All proceeds go to QMCG - Queen Mother's Clothing Guild Charity (Ref. 211764) and will help buy items of new clothing and bed linen to support those most in need in the UK.
fortnum & masonwww.fortnumandmason.com
Being crowned a classy Brit means you must have one piece of Fortnum & Mason china in the house. We love this coronation mug, decorated with many elements that hark back to the royal legacy. For example, the "elegant tapestry design of each piece in the collection combines tea leaves from the camellia sinensis plant with elements from the Royal Oak tree, a symbol of the British monarchy dating back to the 17th century."
King Charles III Coronation FAQs
What date is the King's Coronation?
The official date of King Charles' Coronation is Saturday 6 May 2023. However, Charles has officially been the King since his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, passed away in September last year.
Will the Coronation be a bank holiday?
According to the gov.uk website, "the bank holiday will fall on Monday 8 May, following the Coronation on Saturday 6 May."
Tips to help become the ultimate party host for the King's Coronation
Now you've got your coronation merch sorted, it's time to consider whether you'd like to display your memorabilia at a special coronation party.
Hosting doesn’t have to be stressful, either. We spoke to party planners over at Pink Boutique to get some top tips on becoming the ultimate hostess. Here is their advice.
Step one: Planning
"First things first: decide the perfect date and time for your party. If you’re celebrating the King’s Coronation (any excuse for prosecco, right?), you can choose between May 6, May 7, or May 8.
You could take things up a notch by creating traditional printed party invitations with pretty patterns and fancy fonts. But hey, we know time is precious. Creating a WhatsApp group with all the people you want to invite is just as good.
Next up in the planning stage is setting the right theme. As this is a royal occasion, it’s only right you set a royal theme! Decorate your house and garden wisely, pick games and activities specific to the occasion, and set a strict dress code.
For example, everyone should be encouraged to wear their most glamorous fits in the UK’s national colours. Think red mini dresses, white playsuits, and blue co-ords.
Step two: Preparations
You want to be able to enjoy yourself at your own party, which means preparation beforehand is key. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider way ahead of the occasion:
Cleaning your home: Create a cleaning checklist to guarantee no job is forgotten about. Your list should include tasks such as washing glassware and mowing the grass.
Shopping for food and drink: While it’s not uncommon to advise party guests to bring their own alcohol, a good host should still have some food and drink available. In advance of the big day, hit up your local supermarket for some beers, wine, soft drinks, BBQ food, and a few ‘picky bits’.
Rearranging the home or garden: Having multiple people in your home or garden means you need to be conscious about space. Is there ample seating? Enough room to dance? A table where food and drink can go?
Customised cocktails: As it’s a royal-themed party, why not have a go at making some royal-themed cocktails? Rosé Royale with a dash of rosé wine; King’s Coconut Concoction with some Malibu and pineapple, or Coronation on the Beach using the classic vodka and peach schnapps. Let your imagination run wild.
Music playlist: Conversations should be flowing just as much as the prosecco, but good music is still a must. Create the best playlist by knowing who your audience is. Consider the age and tastes of the party attendees, as well as the type of atmosphere you want to create.
Step three: Hosting
Now comes the most important part... Successfully becoming the ‘hostess with the mostest.’
Make sure you’re available to welcome each person and group as they arrive at the party; show them where to put their stuff, point out where the toilet is, and introduce them to other guests.
Things might feel a little awkward at first, especially if you’re merging multiple friendship groups, but after a few cocktails and a couple of shots, people will soon warm up.
As the atmosphere begins to build, consider kicking off any games or activities you have planned. Be careful not to be too forceful with it (some people just want to chill and enjoy the vibes!), but let guests know they’re welcome to get involved with whatever you’ve got lined up.
Treating your guests to a BBQ feast in the summer sunshine? If you can’t give the responsibility to someone else completely (avoid smoke-smelling hair at all costs), here are a few tips to ensure you (wo)man the grill like an expert while still being the best host:
Prep, prep, prep: Before the party starts, make sure you have everything you need for the BBQ in one place, including utensils, charcoal, lighter fluid, and any seasonings or sauces.
Create a designated area: Make sure the grilling will be taking place away from other party activities. Not only is this safer for you and your guests, but it’ll also ensure you don’t get distracted and leave the sausages sizzling for too long.
Ask for help: Don't be afraid to dish out tasks to guests or family members. For example, one friend could help with prepping the food, while another could assist with serving. Teamwork makes the BBQ work.
Cook in batches: If you have a lot of food to cook, consider cooking in batches to free up some time to socialise and enjoy yourself.
The most important step: Have Fun!
Being a good host doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your own fun and memories. Sure, it can feel a little stressful at times, and you might experience some pressure in the build-up, but it will all work out in the end.
A little bit of prep goes a long, long way. Follow our guide, and there’s no reason why you can’t host a party fit for a King while still having a royally great time yourself. Good luck!"