The Queen's official Instagram account shared a stunning photograph of the Countess of Wessex on Wednesday (20 January) in celebration of her birthday.

In the lovely snap, Sophie – who has just turned 56 – is pictured smiling and looking radiant in a smart white coat with her blonde hair styled in her signature low ponytail.

The photo appears to have been taken last year during a royal visit to Vauxhall City Farm, alongside Prince Edward.

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Alongside the picture, the royal family's account wrote a sweet birthday message to Sophie.

"Wishing The Countess of Wessex a very happy birthday today!" the caption reads. It also goes on to encourage followers to find out more about the Countess' life and work by visiting the royal family's website, which has a page dedicated to her.

The post has proven particularly popular with royal fans, who have flooded it with likes and happy birthday messages.

countess of wessex birthday
Max Mumby/Indigo//Getty Images
The photo shared for Sophie’s 56th birthday appears to have been taken during her visit to Vauxhall City Farm in October 2020.

It is not know how Sophie will be celebrating her birthday during the current lockdown in England, but we can assume that she will be spending the day with husband Prince Edward and their two children, 17-year-old Louise and James, 13, at their home in Surrey.

Many happy returns to the Countess of Wessex!

The Countess of Wessex's classic white coat looks like the ideal cover-up to invest in as spring approaches – the perfect piece to add into our transitional wardrobes over the coming weeks.

And, while we're not sure exactly where Sophie's coat comes from, the high street is bursting with stylish alternatives. Here are some of our favourites to shop now, including two January sales bargains...

The White Company Double-faced wool-blend coat
Selfridges The White Company Double-faced wool-blend coat
Now 50% Off
Credit: Selfridges
Reiss Amber Wool Jacket, Cream, £140 (was £295)
John Lewis Reiss Amber Wool Jacket, Cream, £140 (was £295)
Credit: John Lewis
Howell Jacket - Ivory
Boden Howell Jacket - Ivory
Now 50% Off
Credit: Boden
countess of wessex birthday
M&S Collection Tweed Straight Sparkly Blazer with Wool, £29 (was £79)

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