Princess Anne is the epitome of equestrian elegance, seamlessly blending her passion for horsemanship with a sartorial sensibility that has become a hallmark of her royal persona. Her lifelong dedication to equestrianism has cemented her status as a pioneering royal Olympian—competing in the grueling three-day event at the 1976 Montreal Games—and profoundly influenced her distinctive fashion ethos.
The Princess Royal’s wardrobe is a masterclass in functional sophistication, marrying the precision of classic British tailoring with the utilitarian charm of equestrian-inspired design. Her penchant for structured silhouettes, high-necked blouses, and tailored breeches reflects a deep understanding of form and function, hallmarks of equestrian attire. This athletic influence is further accentuated by her preference for robust fabrics such as tweed and cavalry twill, which offer durability without compromising on refinement.
Anne’s style is a testament to the enduring appeal of heritage fashion, often incorporating timeless elements such as double-breasted coats, knee-high riding boots, and structured blazers. These pieces not only nod to her equestrian roots but also align with the principles of sprezzatura—effortless elegance—that define the upper echelons of fashion. Her ability to balance practicality with regal poise has made her a style icon in her own right, transcending fleeting trends in favor of enduring sophistication.
In an industry often swayed by the ephemeral, Princess Anne’s steadfast commitment to a refined, equestrian-infused aesthetic serves as a reminder of the power of authenticity and tradition in fashion. Her wardrobe reflects not merely her royal duties but a curated expression of her identity—a blend of athleticism, heritage, and timeless elegance that continues to inspire.
Princess Anne once again demonstrated her mastery of equestrian-inspired elegance during her recent visit to Southmead Hospital in Bristol. Her choice of flat, knee-high brown boots—while not her actual riding boots—was a polished, daywear interpretation of an equestrian classic, showcasing her ability to blend practicality with timeless style. These boots, with their enduring appeal and understated sophistication, are a testament to the versatility of equestrian fashion, offering both comfort and a refined aesthetic.
The knee-high boot is a perennial favorite in the fashion lexicon, its sleek silhouette effortlessly complementing a range of outfits. For a modern twist, pair them with slim-leg jeans—perfect for those embracing the resurgence of skinny jeans—or with skirts of any length for a more feminine touch. Princess Anne elevated her ensemble with a camel coat, a quintessential wardrobe staple that exudes quiet luxury and remains eternally chic. The coat’s neutral hue served as the perfect canvas for subtle yet impactful accessories: a floral scarf added a touch of softness, while a small gold brooch pinned to the shoulder introduced a regal flourish.
Beneath the coat, the Princess opted for a knee-length skirt and a light-brown roll-neck jumper, a combination that struck the ideal balance between warmth and refinement. This layered approach not only addressed the brisk February weather but also underscored her knack for creating cohesive, seasonally appropriate looks. Her outfit was a masterclass in understated elegance, proving that even the most practical attire can be imbued with a sense of sophistication and authority.
Princess Anne’s sartorial choices continue to resonate as a beacon of timeless style, blending equestrian influences with classic tailoring to create looks that are both functional and effortlessly chic. Her ability to reinterpret traditional elements for contemporary settings cements her status as a true icon of enduring fashion.
Princess Anne’s recent visit to Southmead Hospital in Bristol not only highlighted her resilience but also underscored her unwavering commitment to timeless, practical style. The Princess, who spent five nights at the hospital following an accident on her Gatcombe Park estate—believed to have involved a horse—returned to express her gratitude to the medical staff and to “fill in the blanks” of her memory regarding the incident. True to her reputation, she did so with her characteristic poise and an impeccably curated ensemble that reflected her equestrian-inspired aesthetic.
Renowned for her preference for durable, investment-worthy pieces, the Princess has cultivated a footwear wardrobe that epitomizes both functionality and elegance. Knee-high boots, a perennial favorite, feature prominently in her rotation. Among her most trusted pairs are the riding-style boots from House of Bruar, a revered Scottish country clothing specialist. Crafted from suede with leather lining and adorned with long tassels, these boots offer a refined yet practical option that seamlessly transitions from casual to formal settings. The Princess owns them in both black and brown, showcasing her strategic approach to versatile dressing.
These boots have become a signature element of her wardrobe, appearing at high-profile events such as the Cheltenham Festival and even a Christmas service at Sandringham. Their ability to blend equestrian heritage with contemporary sophistication makes them a perfect match for her style ethos, which prioritizes longevity and understated luxury. By consistently choosing pieces that marry tradition with practicality, Princess Anne continues to set a standard for enduring elegance, proving that true style is not about fleeting trends but about investing in pieces that stand the test of time. Her sartorial choices, much like her public service, reflect a deep respect for heritage, quality, and purpose.
British footwear and accessories designer Penelope Chilvers has carved a niche in the fashion world with her heritage brand, celebrated for its royal-endorsed riding boots. The Princess of Wales, an early adopter of Chilvers’ iconic knee-high tassel boots, has been a devoted fan for over two decades. “I’ve been wearing our riding boots for years,” Chilvers remarks. “I love them in brown, black, and green—we’ve crafted them in a spectrum of colors over the years. They’re like old friends that grow more stylish with age, and I wear them with everything from skirts and dresses to trousers.”
Chilvers’ brand also offers the meticulously handmade pull-on ‘botos,’ made-to-order by Spanish artisans. “I’ve just ordered a pair in rich khaki suede, personalized with embroidered initials in cotton thread,” she adds. “These boots are designed to last a lifetime, which, to us, is the essence of true luxury.”
Riding boots, a stalwart of timeless style, have proven impervious to the whims of trend cycles. Princess Anne, in particular, has emerged as an unlikely muse for the fashion industry, earning accolades for her effortlessly chic equestrian-inspired looks. Designer Silvia Venturini Fendi even included the Princess on the mood board for Fendi’s autumn/winter 2024 menswear collection, hailing her as the “chicest woman in the world.” Similarly, Miu Miu’s “Miu Balmoral” pop-up series drew inspiration from British royal aesthetics, featuring wraparound sunglasses reminiscent of Princess Anne’s sporty Adidas style—a look that has since garnered a cult following.
The fashion industry’s recent pivot towards cozy, country-inspired pieces—think Fair Isle jumpers, wool tailoring, and waxed barn coats—has further cemented the riding boot’s status as a wardrobe essential. This outdoorsy trend has been embraced by luxury houses and high-street brands alike. Gucci and Burberry have showcased riding boots on their runways, while accessible options abound, such as Jigsaw’s soft black leather boots and Cos’s rich espresso brown iteration. For those seeking a perfect fit, British brand DuoBoots offers an inclusive range of calf sizes, a pioneering approach since the 1970s.
Whether you opt for a classic leather pair or a modern suede version, riding boots deliver an unbeatable combination of comfort and style. And while jodhpurs and riding hats remain optional, the enduring appeal of these boots ensures they’ll remain a cornerstone of sophisticated, practical fashion for years to come. Princess Anne’s enduring influence on this trend is a testament to her unique ability to blend regal elegance with equestrian functionality, inspiring both designers and fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
