The Duchess of Edinburgh recently made an appearance in Paris in support of Team Great Britain at the 2024 Olympics. This marks yet another royal family member attending the prestigious event in the French capital. In a social media post by Menna Rawlings, HM Ambassador to France and Monaco, the Duchess’s arrival was announced with great excitement. It was revealed that Her Royal Highness is serving as the Patron for cycling and hockey for Team GB during the games.
During her visit to Paris, the Duchess of Edinburgh made a fashion statement in a teal shirt dress by Max Mara, showcasing her usual sophistication and elegance. The mother-of-two added a casual touch to her outfit by pairing it with ‘Valencia’ espadrilles from Toms, featuring a stylish wicker platform. Her golden blonde hair was left down and her makeup was kept subtle, emphasizing her natural beauty.
While the Duchess of Edinburgh looked poised and elegant during her visit, some eyebrows may have been raised regarding her choice of footwear. It is a well-known fact that the late Queen Elizabeth II had a strong dislike for wedge heels. The Queen reportedly had a preference for royal ladies to avoid wearing wedge heels and they were even considered “banned” at official royal events. Despite this unofficial rule, various royal ladies, including the Duchess of Edinburgh, have sported elegant heeled shoes during the summer months.
Wedge heels, first popularized by Yves Saint Laurent in the 1970s, have remained a fashion staple for many royal ladies. These shoes are not only effortlessly elegant but are also suitable for both day and night occasions. Despite the Queen’s aversion to wedge heels, they continue to be a popular choice among members of the royal family. The Duchess of Edinburgh, along with other royal ladies, has embraced this classic footwear style, proving that timeless fashion can indeed defy royal rules.
Overall, the Duchess of Edinburgh’s visit to Paris for the 2024 Olympics was a blend of royal support and fashion statements. Her presence at the event not only highlighted her commitment to Team Great Britain but also showcased her individual sense of style. Despite the subtle controversy surrounding her choice of footwear, the Duchess exuded confidence and grace throughout her visit, embodying the essence of a modern royal patron.