Duchess Sophie's white trousers and comfy espadrille flats are a versatile combination you'll reach for over and over
Summer outfits don't have to be complicated - this pairing is so chic and it's neutral and timeless
When you think of the royals' outfits, comfort doesn't necessarily spring to mind first but Duchess Sophie's off-duty style pairings tend to tick this box more than you think. Although she loves a good pair of stilettos, espadrilles are her go-tos for summer and at the Commonwealth Games she went for flats and cropped trousers.
The Duchess of Edinburgh has owned her TOMS Valenciana flatform espadrilles for several years now and the white ones are her most-worn. They're so neutral they just go with everything and coordinated with her trousers in Glasgow too.
This style has the classic rope detailing and gives some extra elevation without being a full-on wedge or heel. The uppers are made from canvas and espadrille flats are a great alternative to comfortable sandals as they're a little smarter but still relaxed.
Recreate Duchess Sophie's Look
Duchess Sophie has owned and loved these TOMS flatform espadrilles for a long time now and they're currently on sale at Amazon. The neutral colour will go with everything and they're slip-on which makes them so easy. Pair with white trousers, jeans or summer dresses for a day-to-night style.
TOMS' best-selling Valencia platforms espadrilles have the rope detailing and this pair has the chambray-blue uppers with polka dots. The lining has a floral print and these shoes also have CloudBound™ insoles to provide support. Sophie debuted these earlier in 2026 and they're a stunning colourway.
Also available in tan suede and metallic leather, these slip-on espadrilles are made from soft white leather. They've got a leather insole and flexible flat outsole, and are crafted in Spain. Unlike the Duchess of Edinburgh's shoes, these aren't flatform so if you prefer a sleek look then these could be for you.
Crafted from yarn featuring linen, these trousers are a classic option to have in your collection. They're mid-rise and have belt loops so you can accessorise them easily. There are discreet side pockets and a pressed crease running down the straight legs gives them a smart edge.
Wide-leg trousers are a beautiful and practical shape when it's hot and these crepe ones are high-waisted and have pressed pleats. They come in two different lengths and in other tones too. The flowy shape complements fitted tops particularly well.
With a contemporary barrel-leg cut, these trousers are breezy for the hot summer weather. They're made from breathable linen and have side pockets, dart detailing and a single contrasting button at the front. Pair with colourful tops for a contrasting look or keep things neutral.
Sophie styled hers with maxi skirts, trousers and dresses before and this time she chose white trousers and a navy jacket that was part of the official Commonwealth Games kit. The trousers fell to her ankles and framed her shoes beautifully.
Slightly cropped styles are a more wearable take on the 2026 capri trend and are another option that's perfect for a summer capsule wardrobe. White jeans can be too much to wear in the heat so it's useful to have a pair of breezy trousers.
Linen and cotton options are the most breathable and popular, though if you want them to be more smart-casual, I'd recommend designs with a bit more structure like pleating or belt loops. The Duchess's trousers were straight and this is a good all-rounder shape that works with flowy or fitted tops and isn't restrictive on the leg.
We didn't get a glimpse at the top Sophie was wearing under her navy jacket but she could've picked any number of colours. The white trousers and espadrilles would complement so many other shades and act as a versatile outfit base.
In the past we've seen the Duchess of Edinburgh pair white trousers with vibrant blouses, however she also loves keeping things pared-back. When she and Prince Edward visited Nepal in 2025 she styled her TOMS flatforms with a subtle pink and white floral maxi skirt, plain white T-shirt and a cropped blazer.
This was a more formal way to wear these shoes and you could also make a date night look out of white trousers and flats by going for a dressier top and a sleek shoulder bag. Duchess Sophie's outing at the Commonwealth Games was official yet low-key, as she met Team England at The Social Hub in Glasgow.
She and Prince Edward attended the Games several times to support the athletes and later on that same day the couple reunited with the Wales family to watch the cycling. By then she'd changed into a denim skirt and blouse, though her other ensemble would've been my first choice due to the comfort level.
