The Duchess of Edinburgh made a clear fashion pivot during a royal engagement at Brendoncare Knightwood earlier this week, debuting one of 2026's biggest trends: the refined knit co-ord. The 61-year-old royal wore a rich maroon skirt and jacket combination layered with a coordinating knit, balancing authority and approachability.
Celebrity stylist Ciara Russell told Express.co.uk that Sophie's outfit signals a broader evolution in her style. 'It's a style pivot that feels intentional rather than experimental,' she said. 'What we're seeing from Duchess Sophie here is a move away from rigid, traditional tailoring and into something more fluid and wearable.'
Russell added that the skirt-and-jacket co-ord softens the overall silhouette without losing authority. 'It's still polished, still royal, but it feels less ceremonial and more modern woman in real life, which is a noticeable pivot.'
The tonal palette of deep maroon creates a cohesive, streamlined effect that is both seasonal and sophisticated. The look reflects a growing trend among senior royals to connect with the public through relatability while maintaining tradition.
