The Duchess of Edinburgh is known for her impeccable sense of style, which sets her apart from the rest of the royal family. From her tailored London girl era to her sophisticated millinery moments, Duchess Sophie always manages to exude elegance in every outfit she wears.
One event where Duchess Sophie truly shines is at Royal Ascot – an annual summer season at Ascot Racecourse known for its combination of horse racing and sartorial splendour. The Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot has a strict dress code that requires guests to wear skirts below the knee, have shoulder straps of a certain width, and most importantly, everyone must wear a hat.
Going back to 1995, before she married Prince Edward, Sophie Rhys-Jones attended Royal Ascot with her then-boyfriend. Despite pushing the boundaries with a halter neckline, which was forbidden, Sophie looked exquisite in a white dress cinched at the waist with a snake-print corset. Her wide-brimmed hat, adorned with a bow, perfectly complemented her figure-flattering look.
Fast forward almost three decades later, and Duchess Sophie’s style evolution at Royal Ascot is still going strong. In 2023, she stunned in a white dress featuring bold bow detailing at the neckline, staying true to her love for bow-themed garments. Even on Christmas Day in the same year, she wore a green coat with statement bow detailing on the shoulder, showcasing her consistent and timeless fashion choices.
The Duchess of Edinburgh’s fashion choices at Royal Ascot over the years have solidified her status as a style icon in the royal family. Her ability to stay true to her signature style while adapting to modern trends is a testament to her timeless elegance and sophistication. Whether it’s pushing the boundaries with daring necklines or embracing classic bow details, Duchess Sophie continues to captivate and inspire fashion enthusiasts worldwide.