Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, joined the British royal family for a visit to Scotland on Tuesday, showcasing a stunning summer ensemble at the Sovereign’s Garden Party. The event, held at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, was part of King Charles III’s trip to Scotland for Holyrood Week.
For the occasion, Sophie chose a light blue maxidress by Roland Mouret. The short-sleeve dress featured a bow detail on the shoulder, a slightly cinched waist, and an ankle-length hemline, making it an ideal choice for the summer season. The Duchess accessorized her outfit with a pair of Jimmy Choo heels and a bespoke wide-brim hat designed by Jane Taylor London. To complete her look, she wore jewelry by G. Collins & Sons and carried a metallic clutch by Sophie Habsburg, a brand she frequently favors.
This isn’t the first time Sophie has worn this particular Roland Mouret design. In April, she attended the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace alongside her husband, Prince Edward, wearing the same light blue maxidress. On that occasion, she paired the dress with a double-breasted brushed wool coat in sand white by Max Mara, blush pink pointed-toe pumps by Prada, and a Strathberry shoulder bag.
Repurposing pieces from their wardrobe is a common practice among the women of the British royal family. Kate Middleton and Queen Camilla have also been known to re-wear outfits for different occasions. For the Sovereign’s Garden Party in Scotland, Sophie gave her Roland Mouret dress a thoughtful twist, making it perfect for the spring and summer seasons.
Sophie and her husband, Prince Edward, have become key figures in the British monarchy, especially following the stepping down of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as working royals and Prince Andrew’s withdrawal from public duties. The couple has also stepped up in light of King Charles III and Kate Middleton’s recent health issues.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh recently celebrated their silver wedding anniversary, marking 25 years since they tied the knot. The couple released a new portrait to commemorate the occasion, taken by photographer Chris Jelf in the gardens of their Bagshot Park home in Surrey. In the relaxed shot, Edward is seen with his arms around Sophie’s waist, while she leans into him, showcasing their enduring affection for each other.
In March, Sophie paid a tearful tribute to Edward ahead of his 60th birthday, calling him “the best of fathers, the most loving of husbands,” and “still my best friend.” Edward, in turn, described Sophie as his “rock” and expressed his gratitude for having found her.
Edward and Sophie married in St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, on June 19, 1999, in a continental-style evening service where guests were asked not to wear hats. The couple, who were initially titled the Earl and Countess of Wessex, now share two children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex.
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, King Charles III granted Edward the title of Duke of Edinburgh on his 59th birthday, in accordance with the late Queen and Philip’s wishes. This title was a recognition of Edward’s long-standing commitment to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, a youth scheme that is one of Philip’s greatest legacies.
Sophie and Edward’s increased responsibilities within the royal family come at a time when the monarchy is undergoing significant changes. With King Charles III and Kate Middleton both undergoing treatment for cancer, the younger members of the royal family, including Sophie and Edward, have taken on more prominent roles.
The Sovereign’s Garden Party in Scotland was a testament to the royal family’s commitment to their duties. King Charles III and Queen Camilla welcomed around 8,000 Scots to the gardens of Holyroodhouse, with Sophie and Edward playing key roles in the event.
Sophie’s choice of the Roland Mouret maxidress for the garden party was a nod to her impeccable sense of style and her ability to repurpose and elevate her wardrobe for different occasions. Her elegant ensemble, complete with a wide-brim hat and carefully chosen accessories, made her a standout figure at the event.
As the British royal family continues to navigate its evolving role, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, remains a steadfast and stylish presence. Her ability to blend tradition with modernity, as seen in her choice of attire for the Sovereign’s Garden Party, underscores her importance within the royal family and her dedication to her royal duties.
Source: WWD, Getty Images, PureWow
