Princess Anne's iconic £85 accessory steals the spotlight in South Africa
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Princess Anne has once again donned her favourite Adidas Team GB sunglasses whilst battling the sweltering 33C heat during her two-day visit to South Africa.
The Princess Royal was spotted wearing the iconic white-framed shades during a tour of the South African Riding for the Disabled Association in Cape Town.
The sporty sunglasses, which have become a signature accessory for the King's sister, have been a constant companion throughout her public appearances for nearly two decades.
Anne is making the whirlwind visit to Cape Town solo, after her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence suffered a suspected torn ligament.
Princess Anne's £85 accessory steals the spotlight in South Africa
PA
The Princess Royal has been wearing these distinctive £85 Adidas sunglasses since at least 2008, when she was first spotted in them at the Beijing Olympics watching her daughter Zara Tindall compete in dressage.
The white-framed, amber-tinted sunglasses have accompanied her to numerous high-profile events over the years, from the London 2012 Olympics to Royal Ascot in 2021.
Though she's never confirmed the exact model, they appear to be a special Team GB version of the Adidas Women's Sp0016 Sunglasses.
Many have praised the royal's sustainable approach to fashion, keeping the same accessories for nearly 17 years.
Princess Anne arrived in South Africa without her husband, Timothy Laurence
PA
During her visit to the riding association, Anne presented rosettes to young riders and chatted with volunteers who assist children in the saddle.
When asked by 11-year-old Lashwil about her own horses, she smiled and replied: "More than I should have," adding there was "one I do ride."
The Princess Royal will today unveil the Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial, honouring more than 1,700 South Africans who carried out non-combat roles during the First World War.
Her schedule also includes visits to the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation and the South African Astronomical Observatory, built in the 1820s.
Princess Anne wearing her sunglasses with an orange dress while viewing the new Labour Corps Memorial
PA
The practical royal has made these sporty wraparound sunglasses a staple of her wardrobe, with eyewear stylist Dan Scott noting they are "more functional than most."
With their retro yet futuristic design, the sunglasses have proven versatile enough for both sporting events and formal royal engagements.
Similar styles are now available to royal fashion followers, with alternatives ranging from £68 Oakley Flak XXS to more budget-friendly £20 options at Marks and Spencer.
The Princess Royal paired her trusted Adidas shades with a vibrant orange satin dress for Wednesday's war memorial unveiling, completing her look with white pumps and a quilted handbag.
Princess Anne met young sailors during a visit to the Royal Cape Yacht Club
PA
The Princess Royal's dedication to her favourite sunglasses has been documented at numerous prestigious events over the years.
She paired them with a faux fur hat and silk scarf at the 2013 Cheltenham Festival, accessorising with multiple decorative brooches.
At the 2018 Chelsea Flower Show, Anne styled the sporty shades with a sleek cream coat and pearl jewellery.
The sunglasses made multiple appearances at Royal Ascot 2021, where she matched them with statement hats and colourful skirtsuits.
Now, nearly 17 years after their first public outing in Beijing, the Adidas Team GB sunglasses continue to be her go-to accessory in Cape Town.
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