The Duchess of Edinburgh invests in timeless creations that she often restyles and reworks for royal engagements, making them look brand new every time.
One item that Sophie has often championed is the humble cardigan. While many dismiss the separate as frumpy due to its practical, uniform-like origins, the Duchess proves otherwise. Rather than letting its neat, buttoned-up design feel stuffy or conservative, she gives it a fashion-forward flair.
Cardigan cool
Having covered royal style as a fashion editor for over fifteen years, I understand the hesitation around cardigans, but it has actually never been cooler to sport one in 2026.
A true layering piece, it adds a layer of warmth when a big, bulky jacket is too constricting, and it can also be pretty ladylike when paired with skirts or tailored trousers.
© Never Fully DressedI also think if a cardigan is cut correctly, and fits close to the body, it can be a statement, stylish piece, as opposed to a baggy item, which can appear overly casual.
Duchess Sophie’s ‘tailored’ cardigan trick
Duchess Sophie displayed this expertly in 2025. The royal was pictured at the Royal Windsor Horse Show and delighted onlookers as she was photographed in a ruby red floral dress by Ghost. The royal teamed the statement frock with elevated espadrilles and wore her blonde hair slicked back.
© Alamy Stock PhotoSophie added a cream cardigan by Isabel Marant over the dress, and the slightly tailored finish hugged her waist. The light, wool texture was both cosy yet classic, and because the style hugged her body, it gave the ensemble a charming, feminine finish.
© UK Press via Getty ImagesAnother occasion Sophie made a case for tailored cardigans was back in 2023, on a visit to a hospice in Guildford.
© UK Press via Getty ImagesThe royal cut a timeless figure in a white dress by royally-loved brand ME+EM and added a contrasting cropped cardigan in navy blue by Sandro. The collarless number gave the whole ensemble a modern edge due to the sleek, tailored fit.
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