Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have been largely staying out of the limelight since the arrest of their father, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who spent time at a police station on suspicion of misconduct in a public office on his 66th birthday on 19 February. They did, however, step out at Peter Phillip’s wedding earlier this month. It’s still unknown if they will make an appearance at Royal Ascot this week, after missing many royal events such as the Trooping the Colour carriage procession.
Both sisters appeared at the prestigious event last year, on separate days, but it was Eugenie’s 2024 headpiece that ultimately caught our attention as we were scrolling the archives, poring over fashion favourites. Ascot is the perfect place to go bold with your headwear, especially in the Royal Enclosure, plus the sisters are known for their daring styles.
© Getty ImagesOn the Tuesday of that year, Eugenie commanded attention with a sizeable white hat featuring a wide brim that sometimes covered her eyes. This XXL design is akin to a UFO, frisbee or dinner plate. That being said, we adore that she pushes the boundaries of fashion and isn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd. The royal paired her wow-factor hat with a pale green dress featuring wrap detail.
© GettyThe next day, Eugenie made a second appearance at Ascot, alongside her husband, Jack Brooksbank, this time sporting a pastel pink hat with an extra-large tassel hanging from it. She paired it with a white, figure-hugging shirt dress for a feminine look. The hat, designed by Emily-London, struck the perfect balance between statement and chic.
Royal wedding
While these hats may be considered 'out there' for some, the sisters are well-known for their love of a brave headpiece. At Prince William and Princess Kate’s royal wedding in 2011, the eyes of the world were transfixed on the sisters’ choices. Eugenie’s featured a gravity-defying feather plume while Beatrice’s was a giant bow hat. The bow design was infamously slammed for looking like an "octopus" or a "pretzel".
Toned-down choices
© GettyFor their cousin Peter Phillips' wedding in Kemble on 6 June, both sisters sported pared-back pieces for a change. Pregnant Eugenie kept it simple with a blue fascinator to match her coat dress, meanwhile Beatrice rocked a raffia headband by Howie Hatter. Perhaps this is a new era for the royal ladies? But we secretly hope to see more butterfly headpieces soon!
