The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, has unveiled a new hairstyle, a bob cut to a shoulder-grazing length that is her shortest in 15 years. The 61-year-old royal debuted the 'effortlessly summery' look at the Groundswell Regenerative Agriculture Festival in Hertfordshire.
Celebrity stylist Jay Birmingham described the cut as a 'princess' bob, noting that the feathered ends provide volume and movement, making it ideal for the summer months and suitable for wearing tiaras. He explained that shorter hair can be more practical with tiaras, as it is less likely to slip due to reduced weight.
Sophie's new hairstyle has been compared to looks she sported in the 1990s and is considered a flattering choice for her oval face shape, accentuating her cheekbones and jawline, according to hair expert Andrew Heasman.
The Duchess's hair makeover was also visible in official portraits released following her daughter Lady Louise Windsor's graduation from St Andrews University. While the stylist behind the new look is not confirmed, Sophie has previously been seen at celebrity stylist Richard Ward's salon in West London.
This updated bob is not Sophie's only foray into shorter hairstyles over the years; she has previously experimented with pixie cuts and cropped bobs, some even shorter than her current style. The last time she sported a similar length was in 2011, when she attended a pre-wedding reception for Zara and Mike Tindall. Her hair has evolved through various styles, including a look reminiscent of Princess Diana's signature style in 2003, and appeared to be growing out by 2014.
Sophie attended the agricultural festival in Hitchin dressed in a denim midi skirt and a blue blouse from Penelope Chilvers, paired with tan cowboy boots and simple gold accessories. The event, aimed at promoting sustainable farming methods, took place as Britain anticipated its third heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 30C.