Pippa Middleton's Wimbledon style choices are legendary, but could her 2016 mermaid dress be the absolute pinnacle of her fashion game? It's a bold claim, I know, but hear me out! As a fashion editor who's dissected countless Wimbledon looks, I can confidently say this particular outfit makes a serious statement. Pippa consistently nails the effortlessly chic vibe, and her appearance in the royal box is always highly anticipated. But here's where it gets controversial... is she more stylish at Wimbledon than even the Princess of Wales?
Let's rewind to 2016. A then 32-year-old Pippa joined her brother, James Middleton, on day one of the prestigious tennis championships. And the dress she chose? A stunning £1,200 poppy print creation from Suzannah, a brand beloved by royals. This wasn't just any dress; it was a masterclass in elegant design.
What made this ivory silk dress so exceptional? It was all about that breathtaking, fluted hem. This detail transformed the dress into a true mermaid silhouette, hugging her hips in a way that accentuated her figure beautifully. The vintage floral print added a touch of timeless femininity, giving Pippa, a mother-of-three, a remarkably graceful presence. To complete the look, she accessorized with a striking red boxy clutch and classic white heels, wearing her hair in soft, loose waves. The overall effect was polished, sophisticated, and utterly captivating.
What exactly is a mermaid hem, anyway? For those unfamiliar, a mermaid hem dress is designed to hug the body through the hips and then dramatically flare out towards the bottom, creating a fishtail effect reminiscent of a mermaid's tail. And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about the look, it's about the fit. The expert cut is crucial for accentuating curves and highlighting the feminine form. As a fashion editor, I always recommend this style for formal events because it's eternally chic. While the mermaid hem can flatter any body shape, it's particularly stunning on those with an hourglass figure, as it perfectly balances out curves. A dress like Pippa's always looks fantastic paired with high heels, which help to further streamline the silhouette and elongate the legs.
Interestingly, Pippa seemed to revisit this silhouette a few years later. In 2019, during another Wimbledon appearance, she donned a dazzling vintage-inspired midi dress by the Norwegian brand byTiMo. This dress, designed in a soft pink hue and adorned with blooms, made a subtle yet striking statement. And this may surprise you, but... Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, a prominent figure in European royalty, was later spotted wearing the same dress! Proof that Pippa's style choices resonate far beyond the royal box at Wimbledon.
The hem of the byTiMo dress was also fluted and ruffled as she moved, clearly drawing attention. It shows how Pippa understands the power of movement and how a dress can come alive with every step.
So, is Pippa Middleton's 2016 mermaid dress her most spectacular look to date? It's certainly a strong contender. But more importantly, what do you think? Does this dress deserve the top spot, or do you have another Pippa Middleton outfit that you believe surpasses it? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you think the mermaid hem is truly timeless, or is it a trend that has run its course? And finally, is Pippa a bigger style icon than Kate at Wimbledon? Let's discuss!
