The Duchess of Edinburgh, 61, recently debuted a new bob hairstyle, marking her shortest haircut in 15 years. The style, which she first showcased at the Groundswell Regenerative Agriculture Festival in Hertfordshire, features shoulder-grazing, feathered ends designed to add volume and movement.
Celebrity stylist Jay Birmingham described the look as an 'effortlessly summery' bob, noting its suitability for the expected summer heatwaves and its practicality for wearing tiaras. He explained that shorter hair is less likely to slip and allows tiaras to remain the focal point.
This new hairstyle is a return to Sophie’s '90s roots and is not her first experiment with cropped hair. Over the years, the Duchess has sported various styles, including pixie cuts, messy waves, and bobs shorter than her current one. Hair expert Andrew Heasman commented that the soft bob complements Sophie's oval face shape, accentuating her cheekbones and jawline.
Sophie debuted the cut while attending the agricultural festival in Hitchin, dressed in a denim midi skirt and blue blouse. The event, aimed at promoting sustainable farming methods, took place at Lannock Farm.
The Duchess's new hairstyle was also visible in official portraits released this week commemorating her daughter Lady Louise Windsor's graduation from St Andrews University. Sophie and Prince Edward posed with their daughter for the occasion.
While the stylist behind the Duchess's latest look is not officially confirmed, she has previously been seen visiting the Richard Ward salon in West London. Richard Ward also styles the hair of Kate Middleton and her family.