Powder blue perfection! Camilla makes striking appearance in show-stopping hat

The Duchess of Cornwall stepped out in the dreary British weather this week to make an appearance alongside husband Prince Charles at an official Royal Navy Commissioning ceremony.

Camilla looked sensational in powder blue for the outing at which she was guest of honour, having been named Sponsor of the ship HMS Prince of Wales which was officially welcomed into the British Royal Navy’s fleet at Her Majesty’s Naval Base in Portsmouth on Tuesday.

Rugging up in a sophisticated A-line coat for the occasion, Camilla beamed as she carried out her royal duties yesterday. The coat’s icy blue colour complimented the duchess’ coiffed blonde hair and rouged complexion perfectly and was particularly suitable for the damp English winter weather.

The duchess, 71, paired the understated yet stylish coat with a matching hat which featured an oversized rounded brim, along with a chiffon scarf in the same cool shade of powder blue, which Camilla tucked into her coat to keep out the chill. She completed the classic look with a pair of black leather gloves and opaque black stockings.

It is a naval tradition for all ships to have a female sponsor as it is thought to bring good luck and protection to the vessel, according to a statement shared on the Clarence House official Instagram page.

In her role as Lady Sponsor of the HMS Prince of Wales, the duchess also delivered a speech to the service men and women gathered at the ceremony. She said: “As your proud Lady Sponsor, please remember that you will be in my thoughts and prayers. You will serve your country in an extraordinary Ship, at the beginning of an exciting new era in our long naval history.”

She added: “Wherever in the world HMS Prince of Wales is sent, may she acquit herself with honour, and return safely home.”

Royal supporters were in awe of the royal’s latest look, complimenting her for her style and work ethic. One person wrote: “Camilla appears to be proud to represent Britain, its people, traditions and work on our behalf.” Another said: “Such a beautiful soul.” While a third commented: “She looks lovely…. and a great outfit.”

Camilla has been pictured conducting royal duties on numerous occasions in recent weeks and she joined forces with the Duchess of Cambridge and Her Majesty the Queen last week to welcome NATO leaders to a reception at Buckingham Palace, which was held in line with the alliance’s 70th anniversary.

Prior to the reception, Prince Charles and Camilla also welcomed American President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump into their home for tea, before heading to the palace event.

The duchess was striking in a cherry red dress which featured long sleeves and a dropped waist with a pleated skirt. Wearing one of her signature multi-strand pearl necklaces, Camilla completed her outfit with a sophisticated black cape jacket, opaque stockings and black court shoes.