King Charles’ wife introduces a subtle modern touch to royal fashion during the Commonwealth Day service
Queen Camilla drew plenty of attention during the Commonwealth Day service as she stepped out alongside King Charles at Westminster Abbey on March 9.
For the annual ceremony, the Queen chose a striking scarlet coat dress designed by Fiona Clare. She completed the elegant look with a statement hat by Philip Treacy and a pair of classic black heels. However, it was a small styling detail that sparked the most conversation.
Camilla opted to wear opaque black tights, a choice that quietly breaks with one of the most familiar fashion habits associated with the late Queen Elizabeth. Throughout her reign, Elizabeth II was known for consistently wearing flesh-coloured tights at official engagements, occasionally switching to boots during colder weather. Black hosiery, however, was rarely seen and became one of the defining elements of her signature style.
Because of that long-standing tradition, Camilla’s decision suggested a gentle shift in royal fashion.
Despite the modern update, the Queen still honoured royal history with her accessories. She wore the Queen Mother’s Cartier Diamond Palm Leaf brooch, a meaningful piece that connected the look to the monarchy’s past.
Fashion stylist Angela Kyte, who has more than a decade of industry experience, explained that the choice stood out for a reason. Speaking to Hello! magazine, she said Camilla’s black tights marked “a noticeable departure from one of the most recognisable royal style conventions associated with Queen Elizabeth II.”
At the same time, Kyte noted that royal fashion is often less rigid than people assume. According to the stylist, the change reflects how royal style naturally evolves over time.
She pointed out that Camilla still followed the traditional formula of royal dressing, including a tailored coat, statement hat and classic silhouette. The darker hosiery simply added a subtle modern twist.
In royal fashion, even the smallest details can carry meaning. Queen Elizabeth relied on consistency in her wardrobe, which helped make nude tights such a defining part of her public image. By choosing black instead, Camilla appears to be shaping her own identity within the role while still respecting the structure and tradition of royal style.
