 In 1959, she began studying fashion at Royal College of Art under Professor Janey Ironside.Foale studied the three-dimensional construction of garments and how differing fabrics behave by working freely on the tailor’s dummy, making a toile (mock up in calico).In 1960, during her second year at the RCA, Foale was asked to submit designs for the Queen’s mantle, worn for the Order of the British Empire dedication ceremony; previously a man had always performed this ceremony but, as the Queen did not wear trousers, a feminine ensemble was required.