It was an almost total first for Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh at Royal Ascot this week, as The Duchess arrived for the prestigious horse-racing event in an unexpected look. While Sophie stuck to her usual cut with a midi length dress, there was one distinct difference which broke away from tradition; the colour.
We’re used to seeing Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh in midi and maxi dresses with various length sleeves, and almost always in light or bright colours. Frequently, Sophie favours prints, especially floral or botanical patterns, and is often seen in pale pinks, blues, greens and white-based fabrics.
Mark Cuthbert
The Duchess at Trooping the Colour on 13 June.
Mark Cuthbert
The Duchess wearing pink and green floral at Order of the Garter on 15 June.
On Tuesday (17 June) however, The Duchess opted for head-to-toe, block-colour black:
Max Mumby/Indigo
Max Mumby/Indigo
The dress is question was a beautiful satin puff sleeve dress with an A-line skirt and statement bow along the collar. Sophie paired it with a dramatic, asyemmtric hat featuring black and white flowers, and matched her clutch bag and shoes to the same colour-theme.
Given the summer time of year, Sophie’s previous preference for lighter and brighter tones and the Royal Family’s protocol for avoiding black unless in mourning, the dress was a surpising choice. Despite breaking (or perhaps bending!) protocol, Sophie pulled the look off perfectly, looking effortlessly elegant alongside her husband, Prince Edward.
Max Mumby/Indigo
Her choice of dress also meant she matched with the Prince, as he was wearing a jet black suit and top hat, as is fitting for the formal occasion. The piece in question is from one of The Duchess’ favourite designers, Suzannah London, and she has frequently worn outfits from the brand for previous events including Ascot. Staying with the darker tones, Sophie arrived the following day in another inky dress, this time with sheer detailing, and was spotted enjoying the carriage procession alongside Princess Anne.
Samir Hussein
Duchess of Edinburgh at Ascot on Thursday 18 June.
Samir Hussein
Those also attending Royal Ascot this week include The King and Queen, who visited on the first day, the Princess and Princess of Wales (who joined for day two), while the Duchess of Edinburgh and Princess Anne have both made multiple appearances already.
Traditionally, Sophie and Prince Edward celebrate their wedding anniversary at the event, which takes place on 19 June, so we expect to see them enjoying the day together on Friday again this year.