Sophie Wessex’s tiered flamenco-style skirt brings a sense of summer to Commonwealth Games

The Countess of Wessex was a vision in royal blue as she cheered the athletes on in Birmingham with Prince Edward and their children...

Sophie Wessex's tiered flamenco-style skirt wowed, seen here ahead of the Gymnastics during the 2022 Commonwealth Games
(Image credit: Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Sophie Wessex’s tiered flamenco-style skirt brings a sense of summer to Commonwealth Games during family visit. 


With the Queen enjoying a much-deserved break at Balmoral Castle, it’s the Queen’s children who have been glimpsed showing royal support at the Commonwealth Games in her absence. Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla stepped in for the Queen at the Opening Ceremony and since then Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex have all cheered the athletes on in Birmingham. 

Now the Wessexes have enjoyed a second trip to the Games - this time accompanied by the youngest of the Queen’s grandchildren, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn. For this family day out watching the epic highs and lows of sporting icons from across the Commonwealth, the family all chose bright and lightweight outfits. And Sophie Wessex’s tiered flamenco-style skirt brought serious summer vibes…

Sophie, Countess of Wessex and Lady Louise Windsor leave the NEC

(Image credit: Photo by Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)

Stepping out alongside Prince Edward and their children, the Countess of Wessex was a vision in royal blue. The Royal Family wear blue often for major engagements, but Sophie Wessex’s tiered flamenco-style skirt and blouse was a wonderfully smart-casual approach to this day trip.

The maxi-skirt floated down to her ankles with statement ruffles adding an extra level of detail to the otherwise quite classic silhouette. Whilst the eye-catching paisley pattern of rich and powder blue flowers over a deep khaki background was the perfect nod to the summer season with a natural theme.  

Known as the Bright Paisley Maxi Track Skirt, Sophie’s skirt of choice for the Commonwealth Games is designed by ME + EM and even has pockets, making it a practical as well as super chic choice for a busy day out.

Sophie Wessex paired her beautiful skirt with a dark blue blouse with subtle puffed sleeves and a simple tan-toned cross-body bag. For comfort and style, she chose chunky heeled sandals with tan and dark-blue tones to finish off this effortlessly elegant look.

Sophie, Countess of Wessex arrives at the NEC

(Image credit: Photo by Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)

And while Kate Middleton might be the extended Royal Family member best known for her photography skills, but Sophie showcased her filming prowess during her day trip. Posting on social media, the royals shared a video taken by the Countess of the moment Canadian weightlifter Maude Charron broke a Commonwealth record. 

See more

Sophie Wessex, Prince Edward and their children watched everything from weightlifting to badminton during their day trip. They also got to enjoy some spectacular performances from the swimmers, with the Earl of Wessex presenting the medals in the men’s 50m Freestyle S7 Final. 

And with the Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony taking place on August 8th, there are still plenty of days of competition left for any senior royals looking to make another West Midlands day trip. 

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her 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 next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!