The News
Queen’s Gift to Lady Louise: A Tribute to Her Majesty
Queen Elizabeth II's eight grandchildren gathered for a solemn vigil at the Palace of Westminster on September 17th.
Among them were Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, Zara Tindall, and Lady Louise, who stood alongside Princes William and Harry, James, Viscount Severn, and Peter Phillips next to their grandmother's coffin for a poignant moment.
Lady Louise Windsor, aged 18, the eldest daughter of the Earl and Countess of Wessex, Edward and Sophie, joined her older cousins in paying their respects.
Clad in traditional mourning attire like the rest of the royal family, Louise caught attention with a distinctive silver necklace adorned with a horse-shaped pendant, a precious gift from the Queen herself.
The necklace served as a touching tribute to Her Majesty, reflecting the late monarch's fondness for horses and horse riding, a passion she shared with Louise.
In addition to the horse necklace, Louise complemented her mourning ensemble with a luxurious velvet headband, a choice echoed by other female members of the royal family present that evening including Zara Tindall, Princess Beatrice, and Princess Eugenie.
The decision to wear headbands, rather than conventional hats or fascinators, was a deliberate departure from tradition.
According to experts, headbands offer a modern and practical alternative, not only enhancing one's appearance but also serving a functional purpose by keeping hair off the face, particularly beneficial for royals who engage in hair-touching as a soothing habit.
Renowned designers and fashion insiders have praised headbands for their ability to frame the face, elongate the silhouette, and effortlessly elevate an outfit.
The choice of headbands by the female royals at the vigil highlighted their individual styles, each pairing the accessory with their distinct ensembles.
Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, visibly moved, stood by her husband Prince Edward as they watched their children participate in the vigil.
Sophie, often described as the Queen's confidante and considered a second daughter to Her Majesty, appeared emotional during the ceremony in Westminster Hall.
Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount VII, joined their cousins and other senior royals in honoring the Queen, while Sophie and Prince Edward observed the proceedings, standing out as the sole senior members of the royal family present that night.
Following the Queen's passing, Sophie has been a constant presence, expressing gratitude to well-wishers and attending various events.
Reports suggest that Sophie may inherit several patronages previously held by the Queen, underscoring the close bond between the two women and Sophie's expanding role within the royal family.