Princess Anne, often seen donning practical but stylish countryside attire, demonstrated her versatility this weekend by opting for an exquisite navy evening gown at a gala dinner held to support The Eric Liddell 100 charity. This organization, which serves as a community hub in Edinburgh and honors sporting legend Eric Liddell, is close to her heart, as she is the patron. The princess’s commitment to the charity was evident; having conducted a BBC interview in July, she showcases her engagement with initiatives that have personal significance.
At the gala, Princess Anne deviated from her typical smart skirts and tailored suits, showcasing a striking backless dress that accentuated her graceful figure. The midnight blue gown featured a draped open back and Grecian-inspired layers cascading down her torso. With a glittering clasp at the neck, the intricate details of the dress caught the eye, making a splendid complement to her regal presence. Further enhancing her look, Princess Anne chose sparkling drop earrings and styled her hair in her signature elegant updo.
Interestingly, the navy dress is believed to be a vintage creation from the 1960s, crafted by Frank Usher. However, it was Princess Anne’s creative flair that truly personalized the outfit. While the original design came adorned with a block of pave crystals at the neckline, she chose to replace it with a stunning sapphire brooch that has an illustrious history, having previously belonged to Empress Maria Feodorovna. This brooch holds sentimental value for Princess Anne; she last wore it during a visit to Uganda in 2022, symbolizing her appreciation for both fashion and heritage.
Despite her glamorous outing, Princess Anne is not one to shy away from practicality. Earlier in the week, she was spotted visiting a farm in Yorkshire, where she opted for a snug and layered outfit to combat the chill. This appearance featured a woolen scarf sourced from her brother King Charles’s Highgrove shop, received by the family during their annual festive gathering at Sandringham. The contrast between her evening glamour and daytime pragmatism illustrates her adaptability, reflecting a royal who is deeply in touch with both her family and her roles.
In addition to her charity work and farm visits, Princess Anne’s week was packed with engagements, including a trip to the southwest to honor the winners of the Pride of Somerset Awards. For this occasion, she donned a military-style jacket paired with a classic knee-length skirt. Accentuating her look with nude tights and stylish navy brogues embellished with tassels, she continued to embody the balance of sophistication and practicality.
Princess Anne’s wardrobe choices are not merely fashion statements; they represent her dedication to her royal duties and her adaptability to various settings, seamlessly transitioning from elegant events to practical visits while paying tribute to her family’s legacy.