The new royal blue: Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh shows why we should embrace Helen's Mirren's favourite shade

While royal blue may be a shade traditionally associated with monarchy, the Duchess of Edinburgh has proved that a softer version of the colour is more wearable, flattering and perfect for spring. And she's not alone, as Dame Helen Mirren has long been a fan of the soft blue tones which have become Sophie's go-to choice.

At a recent parade at Sandhurst, The Duchess wore a powder blue coat dress by Emilia Wickstead - a favourite designer of the royals - with a netted, asymmetric hat and court shoes heels in the same shade.

"The Duchess is tapping into what I like to call the 'fondant fancy' trend of this year. Think butter yellow, pistachio green, powder blue and blush pink, just like the cakes," says GH's junior fashion editor, Corin Ripley. "Just because blue is a pastel shade, doesn’t mean it can’t be striking. Powder blue dresses are the freshest variation of this trend, no matter your skin tone."

The Duchess also chose the colour for a UN meeting, wearing a tailored jacket in pastel blue.

The shade is already a favourite with Hollywood legend Dame Helen Mirren, who memorably attended the 2023 Cannes Film Festival in head to toe powder blue, even streaking various shades through her hair.

And Queen Camilla also wore a similar shade this weekend (Sunday 13 April) for a service in Balmoral, Scotland alongside The King, giving the colour a further royal stamp of approval.

If you're looking to incorporate a similar colour into your own spring wardrobe, there are plenty of high street options from some of our favourite brands, including Boden and Nobody's Child:

Friends Like These Blue Petal Sleeve Midi A Line Belted Dress

£52 at Next

Blue Linen-blend Starlight Midi Dress

Now 40% Off

$86 at Nobody's Child

Lola Blouson Maxi Dress Ocean Blue

Now 50% Off

£78 at boden.com

Fresh, modern choices for the season ahead.