I love blazers, but Duchess Sophie just wore a gorgeous navy velvet alternative that's caught my eye

Blazers are a clothing staple for the Royal Family all year round, but the Duchess of Edinburgh just ditched this go-to for another style that's caught my eye. She joined the people of Alderney this week to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of their Homecoming in 1945, after they had previously been evacuated to the mainland ahead of German Occupation in 1940.

Duchess Sophie delivered a message on behalf of the King and her outfit was respectful with a festive twist in the form of her velvet jacket. Like many of her favourite pieces, it's by a British clothing brand - Laurie and Jules - and the Beatriz design is tailored to perfection.

Unlike a blazer which typically has lapels and feels structured, the silhouette of this cropped jacket is still fitted yet softer and very feminine. There are pinch pleats down the front and cuffs, as well as on the stand collar too.

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It's made from cotton velvet and the distinctive sheen of this fabric instantly makes an item feel special and sumptuous. Velvet is a popular choice for autumn/winter and jewel tones like navy blue and burgundy accentuate the texture and shine most.

The Duchess of Edinburgh's navy jacket had contrasting silver buttons for a touch more glamour and metallics are the neutrals of party season. Christmas party outfits wouldn't be the same without a touch of sparkle and gold and silver accessories bring this in abundance.

Sophie could easily re-wear her velvet jacket as part of an occasionwear outfit and the beauty of this particular shape is that it's elevated without being too formal. You could throw on a collarless or stand-collar jacket with a jumper dress and knee-high boots, or make it more casual with jeans and a jumper.

Sometimes blazers can feel a bit much and their silhouettes don't always sit seamlessly over a dress or skirt. In contrast, a slightly cropped, fitted option like the Duchess's jacket can drape easily over the waistband of high-rise items or accentuate the waist when worn with a frock.

In Alderney, the senior royal paired her velvet outerwear with pink palazzo trousers by Emilia Wickstead. She loves contrasting colours (her favourite pairing is green and purple), though if you're not as much of a fan of it, go for neutral tones or jeans instead.

Duchess Sophie carried a black and tan Emilio Perera Julie Bag and she proved what I've always said about wide-leg trousers - they're a great style no matter the season. They're roomy enough to layer under in the winter and this is exactly what she did.

The Duchess of Edinburgh wore her knee-high suede Sinatra boots from Penelope Chilvers and though you could only see them from the ankle-down, they kept her cosy on this December day. Her jacket was undeniably the focal point and she’s worn this blazer alternative before, including at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

On this recent occasion she looked very smart and put-together as she spoke with the people of Alderney and delivered His Majesty’s message.

"Homecoming Day reminds us of the sacrifices made by those Islanders and the challenges they overcame when they returned to rebuild their community and their homes. It is thanks to their valiant efforts to restore the island that all those who now reside in Alderney continue to enjoy its peaceful way of life," she declared.