Nothing brightens up a dreary day like wearing a pop of colour and the Duchess of Edinburgh definitely did this when she and Prince Edward enjoyed a day at the races on 29th November. Braving the grey clouds and rain, the couple attended The Coral Gold Cup at Newbury and Sophie’s ensemble consisted of suede Sinatra knee-high boots by Penelope Chilvers – and two surprising shades.
Her long khaki coat is a piece she’s worn on Christmas Day before and she accessorised with a pink clutch and a camel hat decorated with a vibrant pink ribbon. Until I saw this look I’m not sure I’d have been brave enough to style green and raspberry pink and yet she made it look so chic.
(Image credit: Photo by Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)
Recreate Duchess Sophie’s Outfit
Exact Match
Penelope Chilvers Sinatra Suede Boot
Right now you can get Duchess Sophie’s exact Sinatra boots for £180 and the neutral biscuit-brown colour is something you could wear right through to spring. They’re made from suede and have a mid-height heel and a hidden elasticated dart on the calf to ensure a close fit.
Dune Caramel Tayla Knee-High Boots
The Tayla suede boots are a style Dune brings back year after year and we can all see why – they’re so timeless and elegant. The caramel shade is on sale in the UK right now and this soft, warm-toned colour is very similar to Duchess Sophie’s boots.
Circus NY by Sam Edelman Yulia Boots
Even the name of the colour – spiced nutmeg – makes these boots feel wintery and they’re currently discounted in the sale. They have leather uppers and a slim, stacked heel, as well as a pointed toe.
Whistles Green Funnel-Neck Dress
A jumper dress is one of those wardrobe staples that looks put together but is also very comfortable and this one has a funnel neckline and midi length. The ribbed detailing is a lovely, traditional touch and the material is 100% wool for maximum warmth.
Boden Stretch Block Heel Boots
Polished and sleek, these faux suede knee boots are an classic way to elevate your winter looks. They feature a sturdy block heel and are finished with a pointed toe. The added stretch is a comfy detail and the warm tan colour is incredibly versatile.
Treasure & Bond Turtleneck Sweater
Made from material featuring a hint of alpaca wool, this jumper is a great piece for days where you want to feel fashionable but comfy. It’s intentionally over-sized, with dropped shoulders, wide sleeves and a roll-neckline.
Boden Belgravia Ponte Trousers
These trousers are seriously vibrant – just like the ribbon on Sophie’s hat – but, like she did, you can soften the effect with the rest of your outfit. Go for a neutral jumper and boots and these will do all the talking. They’re wide-leg and made from crease-free ponte, with three lengths available.
M&S Khaki Air-Yarn Crew Neck Jumper
Affordable and easy-to-wear, this khaki jumper is spun with breathable air-yarn and a touch of wool, making it a comfortable and cosy. It’s designed in a regular fit with a timeless crew neckline and is finished with ribbed trims on the neck, cuffs and hem.
Phase Eight Pink Suede Clutch Bag
This pink suede envelope clutch bag with a gold-toned chain strap so you can carry it crossbody or as a shoulder bag if you prefer. There’s an inside pocket inside and it’s roomy enough for your essentials whilst still being a dinky evening bag.
The Duchess already wears a lot of green and purple, but the pink was even more statement. Because the raspberry tone was the most vivid element, Sophie incorporated it sparingly.
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The ribbon on her hat was eye-catching whilst still being quite a small part of the design and her clutch bag was equally minimal. She let the rich pink colour do the talking and her green coat was an earthy khaki rather than emerald or leaf-green, which also helped with a sense of balance.
The Duchess of Edinburgh finished off her Newbury outfit with her Penelope Chilvers knee-high boots, which are currently reduced to £180, down from £359. Sophie likes to support the best British clothing brands like this when she can and her boots had a sturdy block heel and rounded toe.
(Image credit: Photo by Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)
They come in different shades, though hers were the caramel versions and they were a clever pairing for such a bold, colourful look. The Duchess’s neutral boots worked with both the pink and green, and were a softer contrast against them than black knee-highs would’ve been.
All-too-often we think of black boots first when we want something versatile, but lighter browns can work even better with lighter or brighter colours. The boots also tied in with the main colour of Sophie’s hat and the matching elements gave this look a cohesive, polished feel.
Even if you remain unconvinced by her example of wearing pink and green together, she’s given a masterclass in how to style clashing colours in a sophisticated way. Classic boots can be the perfect finishing touch and going for timeless silhouettes like her long, tailored coat are key.
(Image credit: Photo by Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)
You could go for a colourful coat with all-black clothes for a bold date night outfit, or a pair of bright trousers with a more muted jumper – the possibilities are endless, it’s just about the balance and what shades work for your signature style.
Duchess Sophie loves pink and this raspberry hue brings an instant sense of fun. She’s known for pushing boundaries when it comes to royal fashion, particularly when it comes to hats, and often goes for feather-adorned items or interesting shapes.
Whilst there are certain items – like tailored coats and knee-highs – that she relies upon to give her winter outfits a sophisticated edge, she’s not afraid to be playful with other elements. This is one of the reasons I love seeing her step out in new outfits so much – and always keep an eye on the combinations Sophie has tried and tested.
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