As warmer weather finally begins settling in, one wardrobe staple continues to prove its worth season after season: the classic shirt dress. And Duchess Sophie has just reminded us exactly why it never goes out of style.
On Tuesday, during a visit to The Royal Society of Portrait Painters annual exhibition at Mall Galleries, the Duchess of Edinburgh, 61, re-wore one of her go-to Emilia Wickstead dresses, reportedly worth more than £2,000. The sophisticated navy fit-and-flare shirt dress perfectly captured the elegant, timeless aesthetic Sophie has become known for, proving once again that a tailored midi dress is one of the hardest-working staples you can have in your wardrobe.
A navy shirt dress works particularly well for the spring and summer, too. It feels softer and fresher than a classic black, while still remaining endlessly versatile – easy to style for work, smarter events, lunches or even more relaxed daytime occasions depending on how you accessorise it. The structured silhouette also creates that effortlessly put-together feel that royal women gravitate towards time and time again.
However, if you are not looking to spend four figures on a new dress, we headed to the high street and found a surprisingly chic alternative from Hobbs. The brand’s ‘Lyla’ Dress captures a very similar feel to Sophie’s designer version, while coming in at a far more accessible price point, and shoppers can currently save £59 in the sale.
Available in sizes 6 to 22, alongside both regular and petite fits, the Hobbs design features a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette, classic button placket fastening, removable waist belt and practical side pockets. The midi-length shape gives it the same polished elegance as Sophie’s Emilia Wickstead look, while the softly structured fabric makes it feel incredibly wearable for everyday life.
There are a few subtle differences between the two styles. Sophie’s design leans slightly more couture-inspired with a sharper structure and fuller skirt, while the Hobbs version feels softer, more relaxed and easier to transition from office wear through to everyday styling. In many ways, that versatility is exactly what makes it such a strong high street find.
Comfort appears to be a major selling point among shoppers, too. One happy customer shared: “A really stylish dress that’s comfortable to wear. The below-the-knee length looks great on this style of dress.” Another added: “Smart and comfortable dress.”
Meanwhile, a third shopper praised the overall value of the piece, writing: “The sleeves and around the bust are a little snug for the size. Overall, though, a great buy for the price.”