Princess Anne's iconic nautical striped knit and white trousers, first seen in 1970, continue to be fashionably relevant at her 75th birthday
Princess Anne's Timeless Nautical Style: A Look Back at Her Iconic 1970 Sailing Outfit
As Princess Anne celebrates her 75th birthday on August 15th, we take a look back at one of her most iconic outfits - the red and white striped lightweight knit she wore during a sailing trip to the Isle of Wight in 1970.
The knit, with its classic crew neckline and long sleeves, had a nautical feel, similar to Breton stripes, which are timeless and associated with summer sailing attire. Princess Anne paired the top with crisp white straight-leg trousers, creating a smart but relaxed fit that is still considered a winner today.
For those looking to recreate a similar look for a casual summer or autumn outfit, here are some tips:
- Choose a lightweight knit or cotton top with red and white stripes, preferably with a crew or boat neckline and long sleeves for versatility.
- Pair it with white trousers that have a straight-leg or cigarette silhouette for a smart but relaxed fit.
- For autumn, consider a knit that can be layered or draped over the shoulders on breezy days.
- You can tuck the top into the trousers or leave it untucked for a more casual vibe.
This look balances classic nautical style and comfort, suitable for summer warmth or the transition to cooler autumn weather.
Over the decades, Princess Anne has shown a love for a pop of color, similar to Queen Elizabeth before her. However, she tends to dress more simply and neutrally outside of royal engagements or events. She re-wears many pieces she's had for years and doesn't tend to embrace specific trends.
For those who want to channel Princess Anne's style, there are several options available. Ankle-length cigarette trousers with a regular waist, concealed elastication, side pockets, and tapered legs are available. High-waisted white trousers with a pronounced seam detail on the front and back can be found at Zara. For an alternative to a full-on jumper, a Breton striped top with a boat neckline and a soft cotton material is also available.
Princess Anne marked her 70th birthday by sailing around the Scottish coast as well. She and Queen Elizabeth had a discussion about the difference between fashion and style. In keeping with this philosophy, Princess Anne was dressed in a relaxed way on board the boat, opting for cigarette-style trousers.
For those looking for more modern options, wide-leg, cropped white trousers with sharp pleats and currently discounted in the summer sale can be found at Etta.
[1] Nautical Style: A Timeless Classic - [link to relevant article]
- Explore the timeless beauty of nautical fashion with a red and white striped lightweight knit, reminiscent of Princess Anne's iconic 1970 sailing outfit.
- Pair a striped top with home-and-garden setting by choosing a crisp white straight-leg trousers, replicating the smart yet relaxed fit of the royal's classic ensemble.
- Enhance your lifestyle by layering your knit during autumn's cooler weather while maintaining the timeless nautical feel, similar to home-and-garden décor reflecting the tranquility of summer sailing.
- Balance fashion-and-beauty with wellness and family life by dressing in Princess Anne's signature casual nautical style, her preference for comfort over trends instilling a sense of well-being and cohesion within the family.
- Expand your wardrobe as you explore travel destinations, pairing breezy wide-leg, cropped white trousers with sharp pleats and a relaxing boat-neck striped top that will carry the timeless nautical style beyond borders.
