Royal Ascot: Sophie’s whimsical hat, Anne goes retro and Camilla keeps it simple

The royals have returned for day two of the Royal Ascot, with Sophie, Countess of Wessex, leading the arrivals. The mother-of-two, accompanied by her husband Prince Edward, amped up her style cred in a combined florals and feathers ensemble — a stark contrast to her simple, blush-pink ensemble on Tuesday.

The eye-catching outfit consisted of a purple floral skirt paired with a white chiffon blouse. Sophie finished off the look with a wide-brimmed hat covered with purple feathers. She wore her hair in a sophisticated up-do and accessorised with a purple snake-skin clutch and nude-toned shoes.

Meanwhile, all eyes were on Princess Anne who looked extremely retro in an emerald-green silk dress for day two of the premier racing event. Her eye-catching dress featured button detailing on the bodice and 1980s-inspired puff sleeves. The Princess Royal completed the look with white gloves, a cream-toned headpiece, matching heels and her trademark futuristic sunglasses.

It seems like the princess is opting for bold colours for this year’s event after stepping out in a royal-blue ensemble by Shibumi, a designer based in Gloucestershire, the day before.

Elsewhere, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, proved simplicity is best stepping out in champagne-hued dress and matching mask. She finished off the elegant ensemble with a hat, pearl accessorises and a simple cream clutch. Camilla seems to have mastered the art of accessorising with a mask, opting for a matching cream version dotted with embroidery.

Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William and Catherine were missing from the event. It’s expected the trio may make an appearance later in the week. If the Queen does not make an appearance this week, it would be the second once she’s missed in 69 years. The monarch has attended every Royal Ascot since she ascended the throne in 1952. The event was not open to the public last year due to Covid-19 restrictions.