Tights have established themselves as a fundamental element in the fashion choices of royal women, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. Though there isn’t a formal fashion mandate, the late Queen Elizabeth II reportedly encouraged the women in her family to don tights during formal engagements. This preference has been perpetuated by modern royals, such as the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex, who consistently embrace hosiery to complement their regal ensembles. The evolution of royal fashion choices, especially concerning hosiery, highlights the intersection of tradition and contemporary style amongst the monarchy.
Notably, Princess Anne has often favored nude tights to blend seamlessly with her attire. However, she recently made waves by choosing to sport sheer tights beneath her military uniform during an investiture ceremony. This departure from her usual preference for trousers showcased a fashion-forward sensibility that aligns with current trends observed in the wider fashion landscape. The sheer tights added an unexpected elegance to Anne’s traditional military look, which consisted of a stylish gold and navy skirt suit paired with classic round-toe court shoes. This choice signified a balance of respect for royal tradition while nodding towards contemporary sartorial norms.
A Trend Revived in Popular Culture
The fashion community has taken notice of sheer tights making a resurgence this season, often favored by various celebrities. Publications like HELLO! Fashion are lauding this trend, suggesting that sheer tights add a layer of glamor to outfits without detracting from the overall silhouette. Actress Dakota Johnson, for example, has embraced this style, elevating an all-black ensemble into a fashionable statement by incorporating sheer tights. Similarly, Nicola Peltz has showcased how versatile sheer tights can be, pairing them beautifully with designs from her mother-in-law, designer Victoria Beckham. These public figures illustrate that sheer tights are not just a royal preference but a versatile addition to any stylish wardrobe.
In addition to her sartorial choices, Princess Anne’s affinity for gloves during public appearances also merits discussion. While they serve to protect against the chill, gloves have historically been viewed as a hygienic measure, safeguarding the princess from germs. Interestingly, during investiture ceremonies, she opts to forgo gloves, likely due to the etiquette that accompanies such formal occasions. This nuanced decision highlights the complexity of royal dress codes, balancing personal preference with established customs to maintain decorum during public engagements.
As royal fashion continues to develop, the choices surrounding tights and hoses will likely fluctuate as well. Princess Anne’s recent embrace of sheer tights may not only change her wardrobe choices but could also influence future royal fashion norms, aligning them more closely with contemporary trends. The marriage of tradition and modernity that such decisions showcase is vital in ensuring that royal attire remains relevant and relatable to the public, thereby securing a place in modern fashion conversation. As we observe these influential figures, one can only wonder what next steps might unfold in royal sartorial expression.