The royal family's most show-stopping occasion hats: from Ascot to Trooping the Colour

One of the best things about a formal royal event has to be waiting with bated breath to see what the royal ladies wear, and nothing quite compares to a fabulous headpiece. Whether it's hats, fascinators, Alice bands or hair accessories, the likes of the Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Beatrice certainly know how to wear them well! With plenty of official events throughout the year's calendar, there's always opportunity to see stunning new designs – from Ascot to Trooping the Colour. Scroll down to see the likes of Duchess Kate, Princess Beatrice, and the Duchess of Sussex in their most statement pieces…

The Duchess of Cambridge

This stunning Jane Taylor piece is a favourite amongst Kate's fashion fans, worn for her Royal Ascot debut in 2016! It's described by the designer as an 'elegant mesh saucer disc with angular printed feather, and twist detail', and is one of the larger styles of hat Kate has worn. She teamed it with her stunning white lace Dolce and Gabbana dress, which was also a huge hit with royal watchers.

MORE: Kate Middleton wows in fluttery floral dress in surprise new appearance

The Duchess of Sussex

This was a statement hat look for Meghan, too - also for her Royal Ascot debut, in 2018. Isn't this monochrome design beautiful? It's a Philip Treacy's 'OC423' hat, which she teamed with her Givenchy ensemble. 

MORE: Crown Princess Victoria just wore a bargain H&M gown in her stunning royal portraits – and you can still buy it

Princess Beatrice

Beatrice is known for her bold hat choices, and this one didn't disappoint! She wore it to Ladies Day at Royal Ascot in 2015. 

We couldn't leave out this spectacular number from the Trooping the Colour celebrations in 2007 - just look at those feathers! 

Princess Eugenie

Remember Eugenie's tasselled saucer design at Ascot 2018? It's made by one of her favourite milliners, Emily London. 

…and we can't forget this very unique design from Ascot 2009! 

The Countess of Wessex

Sophie went for a very statement feather number for 2018's Royal Ascot, opting for this Jane Taylor design which she teamed with a gorgeous Suzannah dress. She also captured attention with her excitable facial expressions during the races...

The Duchess of Cornwall 

Duchess Camilla looked ultra regal at the 2019 Commonwealth Day service in this deep purple ensemble. She even matched the Queen on the day! 

Zara Tindall

A regular at the races, Zara always looks gorgeous in her chosen headwear. She often opts for delicate designs, so this large disc hat was something different for her back in 2014.