Sophie Rhys-Jones, now known as the Duchess of Edinburgh, has a love story that seems straight out of a fairytale. She first met Prince Edward when she was just 22 years old, but it took a few years for their romance to blossom. The Prince reportedly slipped Sophie his number at a chance meeting in 1993, and six years later, he proposed with a £105,000 engagement ring.
After their engagement, Duchess Sophie showed off her post-engagement glow in 1999. The day after saying “yes” to Prince Edward, she was back to work in London’s Mayfair. She looked effortlessly chic in a fitted trouser suit in a creamy-green color, paired with a crisp V-neck blouse and a delicate floral brooch on her jacket lapel. She completed her look with leather heeled boots, a waist-cinching black belt, and dainty pearl earrings, proving that a power suit never goes out of style.
A few days later, the Duchess was seen in another power suit, this time layered with a chic oversized black coat. Her golden blonde choppy cut was a trendy style of that time, reminiscent of the late Princess Diana’s iconic feathered pixie crop.
In an online event with the British Fashion Council, Duchess Sophie shared that her personal style icons include Hollywood star Angelina Jolie and Queen Rania of Jordan. She admires their stunning looks and also appreciates the fashion statements made by British royal women over generations, reflecting influences from foreign shores.
Sophie’s fashion choices blend elegance and sophistication, much like the power suits she rocked after her engagement. Her style resonates with London’s It-girls today, showcasing that classic corporate attire can be both timeless and trendy. As she continues to inspire with her fashion sense, Duchess Sophie remains a symbol of grace and poise within the royal family.