source: lucywho.com
I have long felt that Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, has been sort of the underdog of the royal family. Although she is extremely close to her husband’s mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and works hard at her royal duties, she gets little credit in the press for her endeavors. Unfortunately, if it does not get covered in the media, it may as well have never happened. However, whether by design or by accident, change has been in the air during the past year and Sophie is in the midst of transforming herself from a supporting player to a newsworthy royal. At 47, she seems to have found herself, in a fashion sense that is. Her new confidence shows in the clothes she wears. Some speculate she is trying to keep up with the younger royals; I rather guess that like many women in their 40s and 50s she is finally finding her “fashion” voice and the courage to use it. Whatever the reason, the results are making headlines. The mother of two wears her hair longer and blonder these days and makes fashion choices that reflect the strength of her character. Suddenly, the world acknowledges that Sophie, with her modern twist on a classic sense of style, is well on her way to becoming a style icon.
source: hellomagazine.com
Wearing Bruce Oldfield, Sophie shines at the pre-wedding party for Prince William and Kate.
source: hellomagazine.com
Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, wearing Bruce Oldfield at the wedding of the Queen’s granddaughter, Zara, in 2011.
source: hellomagazine.com
Edward and Sophie at the wedding of Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco last year.
source: marieclaire.co.uk
Joining the Queen for a royal engagement.
source: hellomagazine.com
Sophie attending the Chelsea flower show in May.
source: zimbio.com
Sophie attends the Diamond Jubilee Picnic.
source: zimbio
The Earl and Countess of Wessex with their daughter Lady Louise Windsor attending a church service concluding the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
source: zimbio
Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, attending day two of Royal Ascott at Ascott Racecourse in Ascott, England
Sophie’s Fashion Rules:
1. Wear monochromatic color themes with a twist; mix the textures — lace, pleats, fabrics.
2. Wear skirt lengths that hover near the knee.
3. Remember that a classic pair of nude pumps goes with just about everything.
4. Carry clutches that match the shoe color.
5. Hosiery — a requirement for all female working royals — adds a finishing, professional touch.
6. Hats — a wonderful British tradition and one that is slowly making its way to the States — make wonderful, feminine additions to outfits.
7. When in doubt about what jewelry to wear, go with a fabulous pair of earrings.
Get Sophie’s Look
Large Disk in Stone by Jane Taylor, one of Sophie’s favorite milliners.
Black Feather Cocktail Hat by Jane Taylor
Unlike her niece by marriage, Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, Sophie does not shop “off the rack”. She primarily wears couture. However, some similar ready-to-wear fashions can be found.
Alexa from House of Fraser
Floral Print Dress from Net-A-Porter
Robin Skirt Suit from Matches
Queen of Cashmere Crewneck (monogram optional) from Saks Fifth Avenue
Ludlow Pants from Saks Fifth Avenue
Stuart Weitzman Platswoon Patent Leather Pumps from Saks Fifth Avenue
Prada Bi-Color Patent Leather Bow Pumps from Saks Fifth Avenue
Dooney & Burke Handbag from Macy’s
