Duchess Sophie's monochrome polka dot dress ticked off two trends

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh speaks to guests during a reception to highlight the inspirational work of paid and unpaid carers at Windsor Castle on February 11, 2026 — (Image credit: Photo by Andrew Matthews-WPA Pool/Getty Images)

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Shop Monochrome Polka Dots
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There are so many fashion colour trends for the upcoming season that I’m already excited about but neutral tones will always be integral to a spring capsule wardrobe. They are the most versatile and easy to style, though they can also be striking.

Duchess Sophie just attended a Windsor Castle reception for paid and unpaid carers wearing a full monochrome outfit and it instantly stood out. Her dress was black with large white polka dots running all over it and although the Princess of Wales is the royal we most associate with this print, Sophie loves a spotty frock too.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh speaks with guests during a reception to highlight the inspirational work of paid and unpaid carers at Windsor Castle on February 11, 2026

Shop Monochrome Polka Dots

Nobody's Child Polka Dot Marley Dress

With it's feminine tiered skirt and ruffled short sleeves, this black and white polka dot dress is a beautiful piece for spring/summer events. It's lightly lined and has an empire waist to give extra shaping to the bodice.

H&M Draped Polka Dot Midi Skirt

You can also get this super affordable midi skirt in white with black polka dots if you prefer. It's draped and made from comfy jersey, with a high-rise elasticated waist. There's a split at the side and you could wear this now with tights and boots, or with trainers in warmer weather.

Nobody's Child Balloon Sleeve Dress

This black and white polka dot midi dress has a classic round neckline and fabulous long balloon sleeves. It's cut with a relaxed tiered silhouette and has dainty buttons running up the front. Style with all-neutral accessories or try with a pop of colour like a fiery red.

Shop More Monochrome Favourites

Boden Supersoft Frill Detail Top

As we edge towards spring we still want to be cosy but we can start wearing lighter tops like this one. It's super soft and can also work as a base layer. There is a subtle frill running around the neckline and the same detailing trims the cuffs.

Phase Eight White Eleanor Top

Designed with a beautiful V-neckline and floral cut-out details on the ¾ length sleeves, this is a top that screams spring. You can style with your favourite jeans or trousers for a relaxed, but still chic outfit, or tuck it into a high-waisted skirt.

Zara Textured Metallic Thread Blazer

With a hint of sparkle thanks to the metallic thread and gold-toned buttons, this is a versatile yet special-feeling outerwear option. The jacket has side vents and tabs, and the shoulder pads bring extra structure for a crisp silhouette.

Sometimes black and white can look quite stark and wearing monochrome without looking severe is a skill. Sophie took the approach of going for her favourite ultra feminine silhouette with draped sleeves.

These sleeves were also semi-sheer, which softened the black and white tones and gave the entire look a bit more dimension. Even if semi-sheer fabrics aren’t for you, going for flowy shapes or lighter materials can also help to make monochrome colours look less harsh.

A pattern like polka dots also naturally breaks things up a bit so it’s the perfect pairing for black and white designs. Unlike splashy florals or certain animal prints which can take a little more time and consideration to style, spots are one of the most versatile patterns - especially when they’re neutral.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh speaks to guests during a reception to highlight the inspirational work of paid and unpaid carers

The Duchess of Edinburgh could’ve added any colour accessories or jackets and they would have complemented her dress. As it was, we sadly didn’t get a glimpse of her shoes but she kept the rest of her ensemble very minimal, going for a dainty necklace and tiny drop earrings.

The colours and the pattern already drew the eye, so this approach ensured they remained the focus. I would imagine she wore timeless black court shoes to the event, though in spring/summer these could easily be swapped for white trainers or sandals.

Monochrome shades and polka dots can be dressed up or down with ease which gives you a lot more freedom to enjoy wearing your items at different occasions and times of day. Sticking to silhouettes that you know you love also helps ensure that you can get maximum use out of your pieces.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh (left) speaks with guests during a reception to highlight the inspirational work of paid and unpaid carers

The Duchess of Edinburgh loves this style of fit and flare dress, so it makes sense that she stuck with this shape when she chose a more statement frock. Duchess Sophie’s outfit felt chic and understated, which was perfect for a reception that was all about honouring the inspirational work of paid and unpaid carers rather than putting the royals in the limelight.

She was pictured chatting with guests, as were Queen Camilla and King Charles, who shared a special message ahead of the event.

"[To] those who provide care - whether you wear a uniform or simply the clothes you felt able to pull on in the morning - please know that the great love you show in small ways every day is an example and an inspiration to us all. It is our duty, in return, to ensure it is never taken for granted nor forgotten," he declared.

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Emma is a Royal Editor with nine years of experience in publishing. She specialises in writing about the British Royal Family, covering everything from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her extensive royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the latest royal outing or unmissable show to add to your to-watch list, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!

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