Duchess Sophie sparks fan frenzy in stunning £3,500 dress during poignant visit to Italy | Royal | News

One user wrote on Instagram: “This dress is stunning. I personally love the matching fabric belt which is very fashionable right now. It elongates the look of the dress which is very flattering. I love the beige and white together and the bag adds texture. Sophie looks very elegant with the linen and raffia of the bag providing the look a degree of casualness which works in creating an effortless chicness!”

A second one agreed: “Perfect! I love this dress”.

Another user wrote on X: “Another exquisite dress! Sophie is tireless, lovely(sic). Such a precious asset to TRF.”

A fourth user added: “I really like this dress, it’s perfect for this occasion(sic) and Sophie looks fabulous. But how weird is it that I love the sleeves the most???? Weird.”

Lastly, a fifth one said: “That is how to dress appropriately on such an occasion. Well done Sophie.”

On Sunday, the duchess attended a ceremony at the Commonwealth War Cemetery where she read King Charles’s message of remembrance.

The monarch paid tribute to the sacrifices made by allied forces and called for reflection on the courage of the men and women whose actions in central Italy enabled the landings in Normandy a few weeks later.

The human and material cost of the battle was high.

Charles’s message read: “Eighty years ago, the Battle of Monte Cassino concluded with an Allied victory which opened the Road to Rome and marked the beginning of the end for the occupation of Italy. Let us pause to reflect on the immense sacrifices made by so many for the cause of freedom in Europe – perhaps ever more poignant today.”

The King continued: “Let us remember all those who fought in the campaign, including the lives of the Commonwealth personnel who never returned home and lie, or are remembered, in the Cassino War Cemetery. And let us also recall the hardships, service and suffering of the Italian civilian population during this period.

“Coming together to honour the fallen on this hallowed ground, reminds us that the rights and freedoms we enjoy today were won at a great cost, and bring with them great responsibilities for our generations and those yet unborn.

“Such sacrifice can never be forgotten. On behalf of my wife and myself, I send special warmest wishes and prayers on this solemn occasion of remembrance and commemoration.”