The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh recently celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary, prompting royal enthusiasts to look back at their 1999 nuptials, where the late Queen famously broke a strict dress code rule.
A Relaxed Royal Wedding
Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones exchanged vows at St George's Chapel in Windsor on June 19, 1999, with senior royals including Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, King Charles, and Princes William and Harry in attendance. Described as an "informal" royal wedding, the couple requested guests wear evening attire without hats.
Queen Elizabeth's Fashion Choice
Despite the request, Queen Elizabeth wore a lilac fascinator, which she had lent Sophie a tiara from her private collection for the ceremony. The Queen Mother also wore a hat, and Princess Anne sported a green hair accessory, disregarding the no-hat rule.
Sophie's Path to Duchess
Although Sophie joined the Royal Family over two decades ago, she only became a duchess in 2023 when King Charles bestowed the Edinburgh dukedom on the couple, fulfilling Prince Philip's wishes. The late duke reportedly admired Prince Edward's dedication to the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a youth scheme he founded in 1956.
Reflecting on learning of Prince Philip's plans, Sophie told The Telegraph: "We sat there slightly stunned. He literally came straight in and said, 'Right. I'd like it very much if you would consider that.'"
Steadfast Royal Support
Edward and Sophie are regarded as some of the most loyal members of the Royal Family, quietly devoted to their duties. They champion causes like preventing sexual violence and youth empowerment, and appear alongside the King and Queen at major events. Recently, they watched the Garter Day procession at Windsor Castle with the Prince and Princess of Wales and thousands of spectators. Sophie was pictured speaking to Kate while waiting for the garter knights, and Edward walked alongside William in the oldest order of chivalry in Britain.
