October has officially put the Royal Family back on the fashion map, and after what feels like years of rather uninspiring royal wardrobes, the glamour has finally returned with a bang. From glittering tiaras and breathtaking designer gowns to fabulous new purchases and some seriously show-stopping appearances, this month has delivered the kind of royal fashion moments that were long awaited.
The last few years have been relatively quiet on the royal fashion front, with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepping away from royal duties, King Charles championing a slimmed-down monarchy and Princess Catherine taking time away from the spotlight. Even the likes of Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, who have long provided plenty of fashion inspiration despite not being working royals, haven't quite filled the void left by the once-bustling royal calendar.
Queen Camilla's colour of the season moment
Queen Camilla opted for understated elegance last week as she joined King Charles and Prince William in Aberfan, Wales, to mark the 60th anniversary of the devastating mining disaster. The Queen stepped out in a classic camel-coloured coat featuring delicate ruffled trimming, layered over an animal-print dress by Fiona Clare, with chocolate-brown suede knee-high boots and black leather gloves. Her sparkling Welsh Guards leek brooch was a particularly thoughtful addition, paying tribute to Wales through its national emblem.
While the warm autumnal palette and practical footwear worked beautifully together, the ensemble was a little too safe. Nevertheless, for such a solemn occasion, Camilla struck the right balance between elegant royal dressing and respectful restraint.
Zara's powerhouse suit
Zara Tindall rarely puts a fashionable foot wrong, and while her appearance at Cheltenham Racecourse for the William Hill Showcase on Saturday, October 24, earned a spot in the top 11, it certainly wasn't anywhere near the top of the list. The 45-year-old royal opted for a blue houndstooth Veronica Beard trouser suit, styled with a burgundy Karen Millen cashmere jumper, a dramatic Juliette Botterill hat and a gorgeous £345 Fairfax & Favor Mini Blenheim handbag.
While the rich autumnal accessories and cosy knitwear were adored, the suit itself just wasn't doing it, which is surprising considering the usual obsession with Zara's Veronica Beard tailoring. The belted jacket and wide-leg trousers felt a little too fussy together, and the ensemble would have looked infinitely sharper without the belt competing for attention.
Camilla's animal print surprise
Queen Camilla embraced her wild side on October 21, stepping out in a striking animal-print dress and chocolate-brown suede boots alongside King Charles during the Sultan of Oman's state visit to Britain. The combination of the bold leopard-inspired print and knee-high boots gave her traditionally elegant wardrobe a rather refreshing, contemporary twist. The flowing silhouette was flattering, while the rich autumnal tones worked beautifully together without looking too busy.
However, it was noted that seeing Camilla in vibrant colours is a preference, and this muted ensemble didn't quite deliver the wow factor expected from her more glamorous appearances. Still, it was a sophisticated look with just enough personality to earn a respectable ninth place in the royal fashion rankings.
Meghan Markle's British fashion moment
Meghan Markle made her long-awaited return to royal-style engagements in Nottingham alongside Prince Harry on October 15, and while it was wonderful to see the Duchess back on British soil, her outfit left mixed feelings. The rich burgundy colour palette was adored, particularly her chic Joseph roll-neck jumper, beautifully fitted plum skirt from The Fold and coordinating Jennifer Chamandi heels, which delivered a masterclass in autumnal elegance.
However, the oversized Joseph cashmere coat completely swallowed her petite frame, and the outfit looked infinitely more sophisticated without it. Still, Meghan is getting reacquainted with the unpredictable British weather after years in sunny California, so the extra layers were forgiven on this occasion. While her sleek ponytail looked polished, her signature messy chignon bun was missed.
Camilla's Diplomatic tribute to Oman
Queen Camilla delivered a masterclass in diplomatic dressing during the Sultan of Oman's state visit to Windsor Castle on October 20, stepping out in a striking scarlet Fiona Clare coat and matching Philip Treacy hat. The vibrant red was a beautiful nod to the Omani flag, proving that Her Majesty understands the power of fashion to convey a message. Her dazzling Cartier floral brooch, previously belonging to the Queen Mother, added a wonderful touch of royal history, while the structured tailoring gave the ensemble a wonderfully polished finish.
This look was particularly adored because Camilla isn't afraid to embrace bold colour, and the combination of scarlet and sparkling jewels was nothing short of regal. It was elegant, meaningful and beautifully executed, earning a very respectable seventh place in the rankings.
