The British royal family just recently entered a period of mourning. This follows the death of the Duchess of Kent, who died on 4 September aged 92. The new monarch, King Charles, and his wife Queen Camilla, cut serious figures at the Braemar Gathering, donning black ceremonial dress to show their mourning and respect. Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal. It has now been confirmed that the King has granted this extension to royal mourning. It will go on until the funeral, which is set for September 16 at Westminster Cathedral. While in mourning, the royal family and their respective staff members will select garments that best pay respect to the late Duchess. They seek to honor them in a more substantial and fitting manner.
Members of Livery, staff of the Royal Mews and Troops on Public Duties will all don black armbands. This symbolic measure is meant as a memorial to honor their memory. This united show of mourning underscores the royal family’s dedication to abide by traditions during periods of grief.
Kate Middleton, for instance, made headlines with her visit to Sudbury Silk Mills, where she debuted a tailored pantsuit by British label Bella Freud. Though the ensemble is unmistakably her, the outfit fits perfectly with the current mood of mourning.
Additionally, during her visit to the Women’s Institute branch in Sunningdale, Ascot, Kate showcased a tweed dress from Alessandra Rich. This selection couldn’t be more spot on the archetypal British look. It parallels a growing overall international trend with royals, with Princess Anne recently inspiring noteworthy collections from major fashion houses.
The 75-year-old royal stepped out on a busy day of engagements in chic grey checked blazer with bright yellow stripes. She wore it with a great black A-line skirt and trendy boots. Her sartorial statements quickly caught the eye of designers – in particular, she inspired Fendi’s menswear autumn/winter 2024-25 collection. On the occasion of her visit to the National History Museum, she opted for a brown-green houndstooth blazer from Ralph Lauren.
Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy continues to resonate within the fashion world, serving as a muse for Miu Miu’s Balmoral collection showcased during their autumn/winter 24 runway show. The legacy of these royal figures serves to illustrate the concentrations of tradition and modernity that make up contemporary fashion.
Yet as royal engagements take over the family’s schedule, they remain dedicated to preserving such memories. They rock their eccentricities with swagger. There is a fine line between mourning and personal expression. This fascinating interplay is a glimpse into the adaptability and resilience demanded of royal duties today.
