Investiture Fashion: Royal Recognition's Style Wins and Fails

The moment of receiving a royal honour is a significant career milestone, often marked by a visit to Buckingham Palace to be anointed by the King. This occasion calls for a carefully considered wardrobe, balancing grandeur with appropriateness, ensuring the outfit complements rather than overshadows the ceremony.

Fashionable Successes

Some recipients have masterfully navigated the sartorial expectations. Dame Anna Wintour, for instance, received acclaim for her immaculate grey Alexander McQueen suit when she was made a Companion of Honour in 2025. Her ensemble, characterized by clean lines and a perfect hemline, exemplified understated elegance.

Keira Knightley opted for a classic approach in 2018, wearing a belted cream and yellow Chanel suit with a matching hat when she collected her OBE, embodying cool, understated British style. Similarly, Dame Joan Collins brought old-school Hollywood glamour to her investiture in 2015 with a striking black-and-white ensemble, long black gloves, and a Chanel bag.

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Dame Joanna Lumley’s choice of a hot-pink coat dress from Laura Green London for her damehood in 2023 was praised for perfectly capturing the occasion. Carey Mulligan’s effortlessly cool ivory jacket and black pleated trousers from The Row also drew attention for their sophisticated yet relaxed style. Emma Raducanu’s striking Dior ensemble, featuring an asymmetric black silk-lace dress and a stylish boater hat, was a standout when she received her MBE in 2022.

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Other notable successful ensembles included Jayne Sinfield’s navy Self-Portrait suit paired with a Chanel bag, Victoria Beckham's elegant midnight-blue dress of her own design, and Davina McCall's sophisticated navy floral Rebecca Vallance dress.

Fashionable Missteps

Conversely, some individuals have missed the mark with their sartorial choices. Penny Lancaster’s 2016 appearance with a pink floral A-line skirt, pink fur stole, and strappy heels was described as too busy and try-hard. Dame Twiggy Lawson’s 2019 white trouser suit and oyster-coloured fascinator were deemed odd and disjointed.

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Dame Emma Thompson faced criticism for wearing white trainers with her teal suit in 2018, a choice she later defended as 'posh trainers,' though trainers generally detract from the formality of the occasion. Designer John Galliano drew attention in 2001 for wearing a morning suit without a shirt when collecting his MBE.

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Mel B’s scarlet bodycon dress in 2022 was considered more suitable for an office party than a royal occasion, while Lesley Manville’s mint and cream suit with bright red accessories in the same year was found to be confusing. Lorraine Kelly's shapeless coat dress from 2021 was described as dated.

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Priti Patel's buttoned-up collar and floaty A-line coat dress in 2023 drew comparisons to a public-school headmistress, and Celia Imrie's swirling turquoise coat and feathered sleeves in 2024 were seen as distinctly dated.

Vivienne Westwood's own investiture in 2006, while seemingly understated, featured a daring surprise, showcasing her characteristic provocation. The late designer's tailored grey suit was a masterclass in cut and style, with the provocative element ensuring her outfit remained memorable.