The Duchess of Edinburgh epitomizes poise and understated elegance in every public engagement, no matter the occasion. However, the then-Countess of Wessex dared to be different back in 2001 when she rocked a rainbow ensemble on day three of Royal Ascot.
The head-turning design couldn't be further from Sophie's simple and feminine style, with the royal often favouring muted shades, loose silhouettes and neutral accessories.
© GettyWe simply can't imagine Prince Edward's wife wearing such a vibrant look now! Sophie, now 60, was spotted alongside her husband wearing a tweed fitted jacket and matching pencil skirts in horizontal panels of sky blue, lime green, coral, and hot pink.
The two-piece co-ord, which had frayed detailing and a sharp collar, was styled with a pair of taupe heels. The mother-of-two also carried an off-white box bag and wore a beaded necklace.
Her oversized hat also added to the costume effect of the look. The towering design was one of her tallest headpieces to date, and certainly made a big impression.
Duchess Sophie's style evolution over the years
© GettySophie Rhys-Jones, as she was known prior to her marriage to Prince Edward, has come a long way over the years. In the early days of their romance, the former founder of R-JH Public Relations in Mayfair was often photographed en route to the office looking every inch the businesswoman, wearing stylish suits in neutral hues.
During public-facing events like Royal Ascot, Sophie was free to experiment with different styles before finally coming into her own in the last two decades.
© Getty ImagesThese days, you're more likely to see her wearing a feminine, flattering midi dress with a floral print or crafted in a soft, muted hue. She loves a shirt-dress silhouette and once she finds a style she likes, she purchases it in multiple colourways, such as her trusty 'Yahvi' dress from Beulah London .
British designer, former dresser of the late Princess Diana, and host of the Style DNA podcast, Amanda Wakeley OBE, previously told HELLO! that putting together a stellar royal outfit is the ultimate balancing act.
© Getty ImagesShe explained. "You have to combine formality and elegance with a touch of personality and warmth. One key thing is understanding the occasion, whether it’s a state banquet, a charity event, or something more casual, each requires its own level of formality and sophistication."
For Sophie, like other royals, personality and individual taste certainly come into play. Amanda explained: "Certain colours, fabrics, and even hemlines can have a symbolic meaning or adhere to long-standing traditions. Within all of that, it’s important to allow a sense of the individual to come through. You want them to feel confident, poised, and still very much themselves."
