As Princess Anne nears her 75th birthday, a striking new official portrait has captured widespread attention. Shared on Instagram by royal photographer Chris Jackson, the photo shows Anne alongside her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, at Windsor Castle. In the image, Anne sports a sophisticated chignon—a notable change from her iconic bouffant—accented with a diamond tiara and ceremonial sash. Admirers praised the elegant transformation, drawing comparisons to her late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and calling the portrait “stunning” and “timeless.”
The Princess Royal’s hairstyles have long intrigued the public. In a 2020 documentary, she revealed that her famous updo required only “10 or 15 minutes” to style, a stark contrast to the hours spent by actress Erin Doherty recreating it for The Crown. Hair designer Cate Hall noted that a specially made “ladder wig” was used to achieve the volume and structure, highlighting how Anne’s hair became a subtle form of self-expression within her disciplined upbringing.
Princess Anne remains deeply committed to her royal duties. In a recent interview, she dismissed the idea of retiring, saying, “I don’t think there’s a retirement programme on this particular life.” Known for her sharp wit, she once humorously responded to a child who remarked, “You don’t look like a princess,” with, “Thank goodness for that, I’m so pleased to hear that.” Her humor and humility continue to charm the public.
Her resilience was especially evident after a serious horse-riding accident in June 2024, which left her with a concussion and temporary memory loss. Despite a five-night hospital stay, she made her first public appearance weeks later at a Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) event. Observers noticed a dark bruise on her face, yet many praised her determination and described her return as “inspiring” and “fabulous.”
At the shortened RDA engagement, Anne engaged warmly with attendees, demonstrating her dedication as a longtime patron and president of the charity. Her swift return to public duties, even after a serious injury, showcased her enduring love for horses and her refusal to be sidelined. Approaching 75, Princess Anne continues to exemplify resilience, humor, and unwavering devotion to public service, solidifying her status as one of the royal family’s most respected figures.
