As the holiday season approaches and we start thinking about our winter wardrobes, it’s hard not to look to royalty for some serious style inspiration. But here’s where it gets intriguing: back in 2014, Princess Beatrice turned heads with a bold, modern twist on a Victorian-era bustle dress—complete with a 'flirty' hemline that challenged traditional royal fashion norms. Fast forward to today, and her look still feels refreshingly ahead of its time. At just 26, Beatrice stepped out for the annual royal Christmas Day Service at Sandringham Church in King’s Lynn, joining her family in a striped coat-dress that doubled as a statement piece. Now 37, her fashion choices continue to evolve, but this particular ensemble remains a standout moment in her style journey.
The centerpiece of her outfit was a silver and black striped coat featuring a bustle-style mini skirt—a daring yet elegant nod to the past with a contemporary edge. The coat’s long sleeves, double-breasted buttons, and black collar added structure, while a fabric belt cinched at the waist created a feminine silhouette. And this is the part most people miss: the back of the skirt was intentionally designed to crease and drape, recreating the Victorian bustle effect in a way that felt playful yet polished. It’s a prime example of how Beatrice reinterprets royal fashion codes with a youthful, confident flair.
To complete the look, Beatrice kept her accessories minimal but impactful. A black circular fascinator with a knotted ribbon added a touch of sophistication, while black tights, gloves, and heeled boots with a suede ankle panel grounded the outfit in winter elegance. Her long auburn hair, worn loose, and a subtle pink lip added a soft, glamorous finish. She carried a small black envelope clutch, keeping the focus squarely on her statement silhouette.
Stylist Angela Kyte praised Beatrice’s ability to blend tradition with modernity, telling HELLO!: 'Her ensemble centers on a structured mini skirt, a bold choice that showcases her evolving fashion maturity. The shorter hemline injects playfulness into a classic silhouette, proving regal dressing can evolve without losing decorum.' But here’s the controversial part: while some might argue a mini skirt is too daring for royal daywear, Beatrice’s look feels refined rather than rebellious. What do you think? Is her reinterpretation of royal fashion a step forward or a step too far?
The horizontal stripes on the skirt added dimension and movement, creating a flattering, elongating effect. Paired with opaque tights and sleek heels, the outfit struck a perfect balance between winter-appropriate and contemporary. The fitted jacket further emphasized her waist, creating an hourglass shape that harmonized with the skirt’s volume. Her black pillbox hat and restrained accessories demonstrated a keen understanding of proportion—a masterclass in letting the silhouette speak for itself.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: As royal fashion continues to evolve, how much room should there be for personal expression? Beatrice’s willingness to push boundaries while maintaining elegance sets her apart, but it also sparks debate. Do you think royals should stick to tradition, or is there value in embracing modern trends? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this timeless yet daring look.
