Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, showcased a remarkably modern fashion sense in May 1969, opting for a daring white gown with distinctive cut-out detailing for a state visit to Austria. The then 18-year-old royal was photographed at the Hotel Imperial in Vienna, smiling alongside her mother, Queen Elizabeth II. The dress, featuring a fitted bodice and a revealing neckline, has been retrospectively described as an early iteration of the ‘naked dress’ trend.
A Bold Fashion Statement in Vienna
The ensemble was completed with elegant white gloves, a matching clutch, and the Meander Tiara, which was artfully incorporated into her voluminous, 1960s-inspired updo. This appearance marked a significant moment, as it was one of Princess Anne’s initial public outings wearing a tiara for a formal occasion.
Royal Tiara Etiquette and Princess Anne’s Exception
Traditionally, royal etiquette dictates that tiaras are generally reserved for married women. However, Princess Anne’s early adoption of a tiara was an exception, attributed to her status as the daughter of a reigning monarch. She had also reached an age where she was beginning to undertake full-time royal duties, representing the family at formal white-tie events that necessitate evening gowns and tiaras for royal women.
Just weeks prior to her Austrian appearance, Princess Anne made her tiara debut at a State Banquet held at Windsor Castle. For this event, she wore the Cartier Halo Tiara, a piece later famously worn by Catherine, the Princess of Wales, on her wedding day.
The Significance of the Meander Tiara
The specific tiara worn by Princess Anne in the 1969 photograph held considerable personal and royal significance. Known as the Meander Tiara, it features a classical Greek key design and a central diamond laurel wreath. Its origins trace back to Princess Alice of Battenberg, Princess Anne’s paternal grandmother and the mother of Prince Philip. Princess Alice originally owned the tiara before it was presented to Queen Elizabeth II as a wedding gift in 1947.
This sentimental piece was subsequently passed down to Princess Anne. Beyond its appearance during her diplomatic debut in Austria, the Meander Tiara became a signature accessory for Princess Anne at various state occasions throughout her royal career.
A Tiara Loaned for a Daughter’s Special Day
Demonstrating the enduring legacy of the Meander Tiara, Princess Anne loaned it to her daughter, Zara Tindall, for her wedding to rugby star Mike Tindall in 2011. This act highlighted the tiara’s continued importance within the family, connecting generations through its royal history and personal sentiment.
Princess Anne’s Enduring Style
Princess Anne’s fashion choices throughout her life have often been noted for their practicality and classic elegance. However, her 1969 ensemble, particularly the daring ‘naked dress’ and the choice to pair it with a significant tiara, reveals a willingness to embrace contemporary trends while adhering to royal protocol. This blend of personal style and royal duty has characterized her public image for decades.
The Princess Royal’s ability to navigate evolving fashion landscapes, from the bold styles of the late 1960s to her more understated yet impactful choices in later years, underscores her unique position within the royal family. Her enduring presence and consistent dedication to her public service remain a hallmark of her distinguished career.
