Kate and Pippa Both Wore This Powerful Colour to the Same Event

As far as fashion-related royal protocols go, many of us are now acutely aware of the rule around wearing the same colour. It is important to not be dressed in the same hue as someone else more senior in the family. Meghan Markle explains in the Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan that this rule was the reason behind her ultra-neutral wardrobe in the early stages of her duties—it was rare that the Queen would be seen in tones such as beige or camel, so it was a safe palette for her to play with.

This is why it's incredibly interesting to see not one, not two but three members of the royal family wearing a very precise shade of burgundy at last night's Together at Christmas carol service in Westminster Abbey. Actually, let's make that four because Princess Charlotte of Wales also had a coat to match. The Princess of Wales led the burgundy brigade with an elegant mid-length coat-dress believed to be from Eponine London—in silhouette and finish, it was incredibly similar to a cobalt-blue style she wore to COP26 last year, according to Kate Middleton fashion oracle What Kate Wore. True to form, she opted for matching oxblood suede pumps (Gianvito Rossi, naturally), an Aspinal of London clutch and even a pair of burgundy gloves. Even her Accessorize earrings featured drop gems in dark ruby tones. 

Not only was it interesting for Kate to opt for a red that was far away from a classic festive scarlet (and commit to it head to toe), but it was also unusual to see multiple family members in the same tone. Her sister, Pippa, chose a double-breasted merlot woolen coat from Karen Millen that featured a black waist belt and peplum. She combined it with brown leather boots and a mole-coloured clutch for a freer, more mix-'n'-match approach. Zara Phillips also followed suit with a burgundy overcoat paired with tights and black pumps, while Princess Charlotte looked adorable in an A-line coat that featured velvet pockets and collar. 

While this might not seem like the obvious hue to choose for a Christmas event, it is a very sophisticated option that works across the season and, as showcased, with multiple accessories in neutral tones. It is particularly suited to brunettes, and one could argue that the depth of a wine red is far richer than a brighter shade. In fact, some sources across the internet state that burgundy is quite a literal sign of wealth and power. So perhaps the next time you want to level up at a fancy event, burgundy may be the best option.

On Kate Middleton: Eponine London dress; Aspinal of London clutch; Gianvito Rossi shoes; Accessorize earrings

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