The Countess of Wessex looked picture perfect as she stepped out in a unusual sea-green dress for the 70th anniversary of the National Health Service (NHS) at Westminster Abbey recently.
The colour of frock complimented the 53-year-old’s fresh complexion beautifully, while the boat-neck on the dress showed off a little more of her shoulders than the norm for a royal on an official engagement. Keeping with the elegant and understated theme, Sophie paired the mid-length dress with nude heels, matching pearl earrings, brooch and bracelet and a cream feather fascinator.
With her hair pulled back into a low bun, Prince Edward’s wife chose to keep her makeup basic, with just a soft pink lipstick and a hint of blush. She is, of course, a veteran at public engagements. As the Daily Mail pointed out late last year the duchess undertakes almost as many official royal duties as Princes William and Harry, but does it all without the help of a hairdresser, driver or secretary.
Instead, the newspaper noted, she writes her own speeches, with a strong work ethic and low-key style that has made her a particular favourite of Queen Elizabeth, who royal sources say consider her as beloved as a daughter.
The NHS was founded in July 1948 by Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan as a way to provide free delivery of healthcare for those throughout the United Kingdom. At this year’s celebration, the countess joined UK Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt as they met with current and past NHS workers including Olive Belfield who was a nurse in the founding year, and 15-year-old Freya Lewis, who was a victim of the Manchester terror attack in 2017
Speaking to a crowd of over 2,000 people, The Daily Mail reported the brave teenager expressed how thankful she was for the staff who cared for her in her recovery.
“My injuries were like those that you would see on a battlefield,” she said.
“This last year has taught me just how important the NHS is to our country. It is unique,” Lewis said. “I know just how lucky I am and I hope this 70th birthday celebration makes other people realise just how important the NHS is.”
During the same week Sophie was seen out and about again, this time with The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Women’s Network Forum.
Earlier this week, The Countess of Wessex, with @DofE Women's Network Forum, joined a 'Bring Your Daughter' to work day @EY_UKI encouraging women in leadership positions to inspire girls in their future careers #nextgeneration
Find out more→ https://t.co/FrMXFANUcn pic.twitter.com/XOPgjQ75J3
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) July 6, 2018
She was taking part in the ‘Bring Your Daughter’ to work day, where she helped to inspire young girls in their future careers.
The countess looked pretty again, this time in a navy blue printed dress, beaming as she stood beside the group of young women.