In this world of fast fashion, trends come and go and before you know it the clothing you bought last year is no longer in fashion. However, there are a few pieces that can stand the test of time and be given a new life every few years.
Princess Anne has proved herself a thrifty royal after recycling one of her favourite outfits at the 2018 Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in London on Monday. Royal followers immediately recalled the outfit — a particular favourite that she has worn eight times in public.
Many were quick to note that the outfit looked modern and elegant, despite its age.
Princess Anne was a picture of elegance in the cream-and-navy ensemble. The tailored cut fit her figure perfectly while the high neckline brought attention to her sparkling gold brooch. The royal showed her colour coordination skills, coupling the outfit with a spectacular two-tone hat, a pair of navy gloves, pearl drop earrings and a pair of black heels.
Princess Anne first donned the timeless outfit in the 80s’ at the Royal Ascot. She wore the cream coat with a pair of navy gloves, a black bag, a golden brooch, pearl earrings and a veiled cap. She liked the outfit so much that she wore it again in both 1985 and 1988. The look underwent a change in in 1990 at Ascot when the royal moved her brooch to the centre of her jacket. Since then the princess has interchanged the hats, shoes and brooches that have been paired with the outfit, modernising the look through the ages.
The most drastic change came when Princess Anne updated her headwear with feathers and bows in 2015 at a Buckingham Palace garden party to honour her father, the Duke of Edinburgh.
At the Commonwealth Day service on Monday, Princess Anne was not the only royal favouring navy blue and white. There seemed to be a colour memo with the Duchess of Cambridge dressed in navy and Meghan Markle dressed in white and navy. Both wore stylish hats. Prince William matched in with his Aunt wearing a navy and white suit.
The Queen, however, stood out wearing a burgundy jacket coupled with a light pink floral dress. Prince Harry, often touted as the Queen’s favourite grandson, wore a burgundy tie – matching in with the gran.