6 Times Princess Anne Broke Royal Fashion Rules As She Turns 76

Princess Anne has just turned 76! The Princess Royal remains one of the most popular members of the royal family for good reason. Her no-nonsense, straightforward, and effortlessly bold personality has long captivated royal fans, and that same signature style shines through in everything she wears. From her outfits and iconic hairstyles to her jewelry choices, the royal has always been a trendsetter. Every look she dons for public events is intrinsically her: bold, strong, and indelible. Here are six of her boldest style moments over the years.

Anne never forgets her sporty roots. While most royals opt for chic, fashion-forward eyewear, the newly-76-year-old is usually spotted wearing her favorite wraparound sports shades during public outings. Strict dress codes rarely deter her—she effortlessly pulls off pairing athletic eyewear with formal outfits. If any royal can make an unexpected sartorial combination look entirely natural, it’s the Princess Royal.

The Princess Royal put the world in a chokehold when she stepped out at the 1971 BAFTAs wearing a stunning green dress and a bedazzled black choker. She finished the look with an intricate, curled bun. While chokers experienced a major fashion revival decades later, Anne embraced the bold accessory long before it became a modern trend—giving off total royal Princess Leia vibes.

Usually, leather gloves are reserved for winter seasons, but the Princess Royal has turned a simple pair of gloves into a stylish accessory. She wears them all year round and pairs them with outfits of all colors and textures. A staple in her wardrobe, her trusty leather gloves have easily become one of her most defining accessories.

Her bold yet grounded personality shone through her 1973 wedding look, which beautifully wove tradition with modernity. The Princess Royal opted for a Tudor-style gown paired with an unexpected touch of blue eyeliner, adding a vibrant pop of color to her bridal makeup. One has to wonder if that was her subtle version of "something blue" for the televised ceremony.

Anne has really taken after her mother, the late Queen Elizabeth, in terms of jewelry choices. Both women seemingly loved chunky accessories, so much so that it became their signature style. While most female royals usually go for dainty or eye-catching pieces, the Princess Royal has often opted for multi-layered necklaces that perfectly complement her regal outfits.

All women have a signature hairstyle. Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana kept their hair short and prim. Kate Middleton is known for letting her beautiful, long brown hair cascade down her shoulders, and Meghan Markle's messy buns were popular. However, the Princess Royal has maintained a distinct look that she has been loyal to for decades. Her iconic, voluminous beehive bun is a constant in her image—and has become an indelible part of her public identity.