Queen Camilla has sparked a fashion frenzy after her cobalt blue dress sold out on the high street. The Queen consort wore the striking ensemble during a four-day state visit to Italy with King Charles, pairing it with a diamond and sapphire brooch worth an estimated £8 million.
The brooch, known as the Prince Albert brooch, was originally commissioned by Prince Albert from Garrards in 1840 as a wedding gift for Queen Victoria. It features a 40-carat cushion-shaped sapphire surrounded by 12 large diamonds, and is believed to have inspired Kate Middleton’s sapphire engagement ring, which was first given to Princess Diana by King Charles.
Camilla’s blue silk crepe dress and coat by Fiona Clare, which she previously wore to Royal Ascot in June, has now sold out. The high street has seen a surge in demand for cobalt blue pieces, with retailers like Next and Nobody’s Child offering similar styles.
The rich blue shade has historical significance, dating back to ancient times when it was used in royal treasures such as King Tut’s funeral mask. The pigment was once more expensive than gold, symbolising power and wealth.
