Princess Anne, the hardest-working royal of 2023, showcased her fashion savvy and commitment to sustainability during her recent visit to Gordonstoun. Known for her packed schedule of events, Princess Anne has mastered the art of creating a capsule wardrobe filled with versatile staples that can be mixed and matched to create fresh new looks. Her outfit for the opening of one of the “greenest” classroom buildings in the UK perfectly exemplifies her smart and sustainable fashion choices.
For her elegant outing, Princess Anne effortlessly combined classic pieces from her recycled wardrobe. She paired a cream roll-neck jumper and coordinating scarf with a long black jacket and tasselled knee-high boots. While the boots have made regular appearances in her recent engagements, it was the unexpected additional scarf that caught everyone’s attention. Draped over her coat, this soft lilac accessory added a touch of color to her ensemble.
The choice of the lilac scarf was not a random one. Princess Anne carefully selected this regal hue as a nod to Gordonstoun’s school colors. Lilac, a color symbolizing independence and grace, perfectly complements her classic yet sophisticated style. Although Anne is often seen wearing blue or green accessories, she has previously showcased her affinity for mauve and violet on special occasions such as the Prince and Princess of Wales’ wedding in 2011.
Princess Anne’s commitment to sustainable fashion extends beyond reusing her wardrobe. In an interview with Vanity Fair, she humorously explained her thrifty fashion sense, stating, “I recycle because I’m quite mean.” However, her intention behind recycling goes beyond mere frugality. By choosing to buy materials and have them made in the UK, she actively supports the local manufacturing industry and preserves the valuable skills that still exist within the country.
As the Warden of Gordonstoun, Princess Anne played a significant role in the opening of the new classroom hub at the independent boarding school. The hub, named “The Queen Elizabeth II Rooms” in honor of her late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, marks the first phase of the school’s plan to create a new “classroom village.” Princess Anne unveiled a plaque bearing her mother’s name, emphasizing the school’s commitment to excellence and tradition.
During her visit to Gordonstoun, Princess Anne took the opportunity to explore the school’s commitment to innovation and support for neurodivergent students. She toured the new classrooms and discovered how artificial intelligence is integrated into the students’ learning experiences. This focus on embracing technology and offering specialized support highlights the school’s dedication to providing a modern and inclusive education.
The sustainable features of the new classroom hub showcased Princess Anne’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility. Inspired by Dumfries House in Ayrshire, The Queen Elizabeth II Rooms feature Siberian Larch timber, solar PV panels, ground source heating, and advanced CO2 monitoring systems. These elements not only contribute to the reduction of the school’s carbon footprint but also serve as a valuable educational resource for the students, fostering an understanding of the importance of sustainability.
Princess Anne’s fashion choices transcend mere aesthetics. She demonstrates that a recycled wardrobe can be elegant, timeless, and environmentally conscious. By reusing and repurposing her clothing, Princess Anne inspires others to value sustainability and make thoughtful choices in their own fashion journeys. Her visit to Gordonstoun not only highlighted her status as the hardest-working royal but also showcased her dedication to education, innovation, and a greener future.