Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh attended a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, in London, and chose a stunning grey dress for the occasion which she paired with a matching hat and a pair of elegant nude pumps.
The Palace shared some pictures of the Duchess of Edinburgh meeting attendees at the garden party and explained: “Lovely afternoon at Buckingham Palace for @thenotforgotten.
“Garden Party, hosted by The Duchess of Edinburgh. An annual tradition since 1921, the event brings together over 2,000 ex-servicemen and women for a special afternoon in the garden.”
On Twitter, @jeannedubrasky2 commented: “The Duchess of Edinburgh is I think the most ‘classic lady’ of all of them. She has been since day one.”
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For jewellery, Sophie decided to keep it simple and sported a pair of drop earrings featuring a black stone and her iconic gold handbag necklace, one of her favourite designs.
Jewellery expert Claire Adler commented on the meaning behind the unique pendant: “There is something undeniably feminine and empowering about a handbag.
“Handbag pendants aren’t as common as one might think although there are a fair number of lovely vintage examples online. Sophie’s one looks like it is gold with pave diamonds.
“Interestingly, handbags have a long history of being linked to jewellery through the minaudière – a bejewelled evening handbag and a jewel all rolled into one – like those by Van Cleef & Arpels, the Parisian jewellery house worn by Kate Middleton to the Baftas.”
The pendant could also be a subtle nod to the late Queen Elizabeth, who was rarely seen without her miniature Launer handbag.
Claire continued: “They are made with precious materials, like gold, enamel and precious gemstones, and appear really compact.
“But then with a click or two, secret compartments unfurl for lipstick, powder compact and even clocks.
“Always useful for keeping the true extent of your vanity and organisational skills under wraps until the situation requires them.”
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Guests at Buckingham Palace today were able to sample some traditional tea and cake and explore the beautiful Palace Gardens.
Twitter user Daniel Wilson commented: “What a wonderful event! It’s great to see the tradition of the Garden Party being kept alive.”
