Duchess of Edinburgh accused of looking ‘scruffy’ after stepping in for King Charles at historic event

The Duchess of Edinburgh was accused of looking “scruffy” after stepping in for King Charles at a historic event.

Earlier this week, Sophie and Prince Edward represented King Charles by attending the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

The couple accompanied France’s Gendarmerie’s Garde Republicaine to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale.

This was the historic diplomatic agreement between Britain and France which laid the groundwork for their collaboration in both world wars.

The King, 75, has currently paused public-facing duties while he receives treatment for a form of cancer, with the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh consistently stepping up to support the monarchy.

Sophie, 59, wore a Max Mara white coat for the occasion, which she paired with a light blue dress from Roland Mouret.

To accessorise, the duchess carried a Strathberry shoulder bag and donned Prada heels.

Sophie tied her blonde hair into a low bun, keeping some strands out to frame her face.

The King, 75, has currently paused public-facing duties while he receives treatment for a form of cancer, with the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh consistently stepping up to support the monarchy.

Sophie, 59, wore a Max Mara white coat for the occasion, which she paired with a light blue dress from Roland Mouret.

To accessorise, the duchess carried a Strathberry shoulder bag and donned Prada heels.

Sophie tied her blonde hair into a low bun, keeping some strands out to frame her face.

Some royal fans were quite critical of the outfit on social media, with one donning the duchess as looking “scruffy”.

Another said: “At the very least, button up the coat. Sigh.”

A third commented: “Not the outfit for the occasion and that’s unlike Sophie – it all looks a bit last minute.

“The coat should have been done up as they were representing King and Country at a milestone State occasion.”