The Duchess of Edinburgh has always blended a classic, feminine aesthetic with contemporary accessories, but on 22 March, the wife of Prince Edward stepped out in Oxfordshire and looked straight from the 1980s.
Duchess Sophie, 61, was seen at Radley College opening the public school's new music facility in Gabriela Hearst's 'Phelan Maxi Shirtdress in Electric Navy', as identified by Royal Fashion Police on Instagram.
Duchess Sophie's throwback dress
The £2,590 dress boasted quintessential 1980s details: boxy shoulders, an exaggerated cinched waist, and - the true star of the show - a dramatic pussybow neckline.
© Gabriela HearstThe shin-skimming skirt and long-sleeve top were made from 100 per cent silk and featured a printed design in what the brand calls 'Electric Navy' shade. Styling her dress with understated accessories for a sense of balance, Sophie chose a pair of nude Jimmy Choo heels with pearl detailing, and her handbag was Studio Perera's 'Julie' bag in black.
The finishing touch was her 'Happy Diamonds Stud Earrings in Rose Gold & Diamonds' by Chopard, which added an incredible £10,800 to her look.
Duchess Sophie brings the drama
"We've seen a 1980s revival this season, something Sophie leans confidently into with this dress. It’s a trend inspired by designers like Versace, Saint Laurent, Chloé, and Valentino who each served up power shoulders, vivid colour-blocking, and sculpted silhouettes on their SS26 catwalks," fashion stylist Leanne Jones tells us.
"Sophie's look captures that spirit perfectly. The dress' exaggerated shoulders and striking lines are tempered by a soft pussy‑bow front, marrying drama with refined femininity."
Sophie's bow-adorned looks
It isn't every day that Duchess Sophie chooses a pussybow neckline, but it is certainly a style that suits her well. In 2023, the royal made an appearance on day two of Royal Ascot wearing an angelic white Suzannah London dress featuring a large flat bow, as well as a belted waist and an A-line skirt with a floaty hem.
© Getty ImagesFor her accessories, the duchess added a wide-brimmed hat, nude kitten heels, and Strathberry's 'Mosaic' bag in ivory. Meanwhile, she opted for a take on a pussybow neckline with her outerwear for the Coral Gold Cup Day at Newbury Racecourse in November.
© UK Press via Getty ImagesHer Claire Mischevani coat in khaki featured a bow to one side for an interesting asymmetrical look, and her camel hat with neon pink trim added a girly touch.
