Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh’s Style Evolution: Suits, Florals & More

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh joined the British royal family when she married Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, the youngest son of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, in 1999. Over the course of the last 25 years, the duchess has attended several public engagements and events on behalf of the House of Windsor. As such, she’s curated her royal wardrobe to suit each occasion.

The duchess’ wardrobe consistently gravitates toward the trends of the moment. But the royal still finds opportunities to marry her own personal approach to fashion with classic silhouettes and popular pieces. Roland Mouret, Suzannah London, Matelier and London-based Erdem are just a few designers and fashion brands the royal favors.

Ahead, see how Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh’s style has evolved through the years.

1999

In 1999, Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones announced their engagement to the world with an official photo call at St. James’s Palace. For the occasion, the future duchess embraced her power suit era, wearing a gray skirt suit with glittering details lining the lapels and pockets of the blazer, which also included a cinched waist.

2006

By 2006, Sophie was an official member of the royal family and attended several events on behalf of the crown. In May of that year, she wore this ruby red satin gown with a corseted bodice, intricate detailing and sweetheart neckline. The sleeveless gown was worn to the “Dream Auction Full Stop — VIP Party” at the Royal Albert Hall.

2012

Royal Ascot has long been the ideal fashion showcase for British royal women. In 2012, Sophie, then-Countess of Wessex, wore a blue-gray dress with a coordinated hat, a monochromatic look that complemented the royal. The look included a pleated skirt with a belted waist.

2016

In December 2016, Sophie attended the ICAP’s 24th annual charity trading day wearing this neutral dress with delicate patterning and a raised neckline.

2020

For a daytime event in February 2020, Sophie embraced seasonal dressing without sacrificing her style. The royal wore a dusted rose, trenchcoat-style look with soft curves on the lapels and a belted wrap waist.

2024

At the 2024 Royal Ascot event, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh showed her appreciation for summertime florals with dress courtesy of Suzannah London. The midi dress featured a sheer overlay with daisies cascading down the fabric. She coordinated the look with a complementary hat.