In a move sure to spark controversy and ignite debates among royal fashion enthusiasts, Tatler has unveiled its latest list of Best Dressed Brits. Surprisingly, Kate Middleton is absent from the list, with another royal family member taking the coveted first place. The honor goes to Princess Beatrice, King Charles’ niece and Middleton’s cousin-in-law.
While Beatrice’s win might raise some eyebrows, it’s important to remember that the notion of “best dressed” is ultimately subjective. Over the past few years, Beatrice has carved out a distinct and chic style, often making bold fashion choices that resonate with true fashion aficionados. Notable examples include the iconic sculptural fascinator she wore at Will and Kate’s wedding and the Blair Waldorf-esque pink fascinator she sported at Royal Ascot this summer. Though Kate may be the most consistently elegant dresser in the royal family, Beatrice stands out as one of the most daring. As Tatler described, she embodies the “pinnacle of contemporary splendour.”
Princess Beatrice’s evolving style can be attributed in part to her collaboration with stylist Olivia Buckingham, who has also worked with Carey Mulligan and Poppy Delevingne.
This year has seen Beatrice make numerous royal appearances, each showcasing her ever-evolving fashion sense. Last week, she visited a London school wearing a fresh floral maxi dress by British brand ME+EM. At Wimbledon earlier this month, she dazzled in a white lace shirtdress by Monique Lhuillier. Her appearances at Royal Ascot featured two floral dresses, one pink and the other green, each paired with elaborate fascinators.
Tatler’s recognition of Beatrice’s fashion sense comes as she and her sister, Princess Eugenie, have taken on more active roles within the royal family, particularly in light of Middleton’s cancer diagnosis and treatment. A source revealed to Us Weekly earlier this year that “Beatrice will be stepping up the number of engagements she does.”
Meanwhile, sources suggest that Middleton plans to keep her schedule more balanced moving forward. “Before, she used to live her life by the calendar, and now she is living her life, and the calendar comes in after,” royal biographer Robert Jobson told People. “She will be back, but when you have had an experience like this, it changes your perspective and the order of things.”
As Princess Beatrice embraces her new title as Best Dressed Brit, she is likely to continue providing royal fashion content for years to come.
