Real reason Duchess Sophie reaches for these timeless wedges | Royal | News

When it comes to royal style, it’s often the newest handbag or the latest dress that steals the headlines. Duchess Sophie, however, has built her wardrobe rather differently. Rather than constantly chasing new trends, the Duchess of Edinburgh, 61, has quietly remained loyal to the same British brands for years, proving that true style isn’t about wearing something once – it’s about finding beautifully made pieces you’ll reach for time and time again.

One label that has earned a permanent place in Sophie’s wardrobe is Penelope Chilvers. The royal has been photographed wearing the designer’s timeless footwear on numerous occasions over the years, including her go-to espadrilles.

And just last week she reached for the label once again when newly released photographs showed her recording an episode of the BBC Radio 4 drama The Archers.

Choosing Penelope Chilvers’ Mary Jane Espadrilles in sand suede, Sophie once again demonstrated why the British label has become one of her summer staples.

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Express, founder Penelope Chilvers believes comfort is one of the biggest reasons women like Duchess Sophie continue returning to the brand.

“I think comfort is a huge part of why women like Duchess Sophie continue to wear our wedges. They’re wonderful for standing on your feet all day, particularly during summer events, and that’s incredibly important. You need something that feels elegant but is also practical enough to wear from morning until evening.”

It’s a philosophy that feels perfectly suited to royal life. From county shows and garden parties to race meetings and official engagements, Sophie’s diary often involves spending hours on her feet. Wedges offer the perfect balance of height, elegance and comfort, making them one of the hardest-working shoes in any summer wardrobe.

But Penelope believes there’s another reason the brand continues to resonate with customers – and with members of the Royal Family.

“I also think our footwear appeals because we’re an authentic British brand. We focus on timeless styles rather than chasing short-lived trends, and that means people know they can rely on our products season after season. They become favourites that customers return to again and again,” she added.

That perfectly sums up Sophie’s approach to fashion. Rather than buying into fleeting trends, she has built a wardrobe around classic investment pieces that never date.

It’s a styling formula that’s also won over other royals, with Penelope Chilvers footwear having been worn by the Princess of Wales and Harriett Sperling over the years, cementing the label’s reputation as a favourite among the royal set.

Listening to customers has also helped shape the brand’s enduring success, shares Penelope.

“People often tell us exactly where they’re wearing our shoes, whether it’s a wedding, a holiday or a special event. We know our customers extremely well, and that feedback is invaluable. It’s one of the reasons we’ve been able to build such a loyal following over the years.”

It’s easy to understand why. Neutral espadrille wedges are one of the most versatile shoes you can own, effortlessly taking you from summer weddings and garden parties to holidays abroad and relaxed weekends in the countryside. Sophie’s latest appearance proves exactly that – choosing comfort never has to come at the expense of style.