Inside Queen Camilla’s royal style evolution: from her take on Princess Diana’s ‘revenge dress’ to wearing Anna Valentine for her wedding to King Charles, and slaying in Vivienne Westwood and Chanel

Nov 18 , 2023

Queen Camilla’s fashion sense has undergone a fascinating evolution, from making waves with a “revenge dress” that aped Princess Diana’s, to rocking Vivienne Westwood, Anna Valentine and Bruce Oldfield. Photo: Getty Images

Condemned as the ‘other woman’ back in the 90s, the Queen Consort’s fashion sense and public persona have both transformed as she even won the approval of the late Queen Elizabeth

Camilla Parker Bowles made waves with a ‘revenge dress’ that aped Princess Diana’s, and soon came to love her designer labels, including Vivienne Westwood, Anna Valentine and Bruce Oldfield

Camilla Parker Bowles slowly went from royal mistress and tabloid villain to a well-respected Queen Consort. And, much like the transformation of her public persona, her wardrobe has undergone quite the shift too.

Throughout the years, the 76-year-old’s style has continuously changed, while mostly keeping a low sartorial profile. From attending royal commitments and charity galas, to film premieres and international tours, Queen Camilla has firmly cemented her presence in the royal family while winning over the hearts of the British public. Not only did her years of dedicated service earn her the approval of the late Queen Elizabeth, but it’s also allowed us to witness her subtle but impactful style evolution. However, she still remains loyal to her favourite designers and brands.

Camilla Parker Bowles, before the crown

Back in the 90s, Queen Camilla wasn’t afraid to experiment with fashion, often donning bright and bold colours – and she wasn’t afraid to show skin either.

Her most stand-out fashion moment was undoubtedly when she attended a party at The Ritz in London in 1995, sensationally wearing what was widely considered her version of Princess Diana’s “revenge dress”.

Diana famously wore the dress shortly after news of Prince Charles’ affair with Camilla became public. Camilla seemingly decided to emulate the look, even opting for a gemstone choker similar to the jewels Diana had worn. Not surprisingly, Camilla made headlines for the ensemble.

Camilla Parker Bowles attends The Prince’s Foundation Gala Dinner in London, in 2000. Photo: Getty Images

The early noughties saw the then-prince’s girlfriend experimenting with more patterns, fabrics and skin-revealing numbers.

In summer 2000, Camilla made an appearance at a gala dinner celebrating The Prince’s Trust wearing a fitted pale-pink satin gown, complete with glittering beaded detailing.

Camilla Parker Bowles attending the Mamma Mia opening at the Prince of Wales Theatre, in 2004. Photo: Getty Images

She hasn’t been afraid to dress for the theme of an occasion either. For the opening of the Mamma Mia musical at the Prince of Wales Theatre in June 2004, Camilla opted for a Mediterranean-inspired gown with a matching silk shawl, which she accessorised with pearl earrings and a cream handbag.