Archive August 15, 2025

Princess Anne is best known for her no-nonsense attiude to her extensive duties and her straightforward approach – and it seems she’s taking that attitude when it comes to her 75th birthday

She is often regarded as the Royal Family’s hardest-working member with a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to her extensive duties.

And as Princess Anne celebrates her landmark 75th birthday, it is exactly that no-fuss attitude that she is taking when it comes to celebrating.

There will be no major public party, and no TV interview – in fact, the only way her birthday is being marked is with a new commemorative coin from the Royal Mint, which is the first ever to feature Anne’s depiction. Last year, the Princess Royal completed 474 engagements up and down the country, as well as abroad, as she retained her ‘hardest-working’ royal title.

The number would have been much more if it weren’t for the fact she was forced to take a break from work last June after a stint in hospital after suffering a nasty concussion following an incident thought to involve a horse on her Gatcombe estate in Gloucestershire.

And according to royal expert Jennie Bond, it is exactly her no-nonsense attitude that drives her forward in her non-stop work. She exclusively explained: “She has always been a no-fuss woman. Her manner is crisp, clean and efficient. That’s how she regularly gets four or five jobs done a day – often in different parts of the country.

“There have been times when I think she has felt underappreciated. She once berated me for mentioning that Diana had been a champion of AIDS sufferers — I had been with the Princess Royal on a visit to an AIDS project in Uganda. Diana had recently died, and the charity asked me to tell Anne that they needed a new champion. The request did not go down well.

“But in recent years, I think her immense contribution to supporting her brother and the monarchy has been fully recognised. She is incredibly hard working and shows no sign of slowing down.”

Anne was born on August 15, 1950, at Clarence House, just under two years before her mother’s life changed forever with her accession to the throne. At the time of her birth, she was third in line to the throne behind her older brother, King Charles.

Their time together in their early years as the late Queen and their father, Prince Philip, often went off on long overseas tours, allowed them to form a life-long bond, as is clear in her current position supporting her older brother when it comes to duty whenever she can.

In fact, during his Coronation, he handed her the starring role of the prestigious “Gold-Stick-in-Waiting” in a gesture of thanks for her unwavering support.

The position is historically handed to a person entrusted with the personal safety of the sovereign, with the King clearly believing his younger sister, who affectionately calls him ‘Old Bean’, was the perfect choice.

But the influence that the late Queen and Duke of Edinburgh had over their daughter as parents also cannot be overlooked, according to Jennie – especially when it came to her glittering equestrian career.

Anne became the first member of the Royal Family to compete in the Olympics in Montreal in 1976 as a member of Britain’s Equestrian team.

And Jennie explained: “There is a lot of her father in Anne: brusque, to the point and no fan of the media. Like him, she doesn’t like to talk about herself— she just gets the job done.

“As the late Queen’s only daughter, she had a very special bond with Elizabeth. They shared a passion for horses, and the Queen was very proud of Anne’s equestrian achievements.”

However, it’s not just her royal work and supporting her brother, the King, that keeps Anne busy – her family life is also jam-packed too.

The princess, along with her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, lives close to both of her children, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall, from her first marriage.

When both Peter and Zara were born, Anne made an eye-raising decision at the time that they would not receive any royal titles – and would be expected to forge their own careers.

And it appears that decision has more than paid off with both siblings agreeing it was the best decision made for them as they pursue independent lives, with Zara following in her mother’s footsteps as an Olympian Equestrian.

Zara is famously married to former England rugby player Mike Tindall, with the couple having three children, Mia, Lena and Lucas. Peter also has two daughters – Savannah and Isla – whom he shares with ex-wife Autumn.

Both Peter and Zara have previously revealed what a hands-on granny she can be, while Mike once pulled back the curtain on Anne’s cheeky sense of humour while he was a contestant on a previous series of ITV’s I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here.

And Jennie added: “I think she has the love and admiration of her children, Peter and Zara. They are particularly grateful to her for having the foresight to decide against giving them titles.

“They value the freedom and independence that this status (or lack of) has given them. And she is evidently quite a fun grandmother to have around – especially when it comes to teaching the children to ride.

“Anne’s sense of humour is dry – like her mother’s – but she’s no prude. She had a great comeback when her son-in-law, Mike Tindall, split his trousers dancing, revealing his underpants with the memorable logo ‘Nibble my Nuts’. ‘I’d rather not!’ the princess quipped.”

So with her own immediate family life settled, could Anne offer her support when it comes to her brother Charles’ tricky situation when it comes to his youngest son, Prince Harry?

Harry revealed earlier this year he is no longer on speaking terms with his father, the King, while his relationship with older brother Prince William is also said to be almost non-existent. His gripes with his family were laid bare in his memoir, Spare, a nod to being a second-born child, like his aunt, Anne.

A source close to Anne reportedly told how if Harry had reached out to his aunt, she could have shared her invaluable experience of her role. And Jennie agrees it would have been a perfect idea.

She said: “Anne would have been the perfect person to offer advice and guidance – but, sadly, this is no longer relevant as Harry has made it quite clear that he has no desire to return to life as a working royal.

“She could have told her nephew that ‘playing second fiddle’ is the wrong way to look at his status. Instead, as she has shown, the second-born can be an invaluable support to the institution of monarchy, and a vital friend, confidant and wingman/woman to the monarch.

“She could have explained that they are a team, a firm, working together to keep the monarchy relevant and using their platform to help charities and communities.

“It may be that the King has discussed his family troubles with Anne, but I rather doubt that she would want to get involved. To Anne, loyalty is paramount, and I suspect she feels that Harry has been extremely disloyal to his father, his brother and the monarchy. She might well find that hard to forgive.”

However, now as Anne looks to the future, she is said to be already pondering what life will have in store for her beyond her upcoming birthday.

In an interview earlier this year on a trip to South Africa, she was asked about retirement amid fewer working royals and admitted it “isn’t really an option”. And sources have recently told how there are no signs of her slowing down in the immediate future.

In fact, insiders say she is keen to push on with work until she is at least 80, before slowing down and maybe winding down completely around the age of 90 – much like her father, Philip.

And while continuing work may seem to be one certainty, one thing Jennie believes will almost never happen is Anne embracing social media.

The princess has earned a legion of online fans, especially on TikTok, thanks to her younger days, where she had a somewhat colourful love life, survived a kidnap attempt – and wore the most fashionable 60s and 70s clothes.

To this day, some of her outfits from 40 to 50 years ago are still in her wardrobe, being worn on engagements nowadays from time to time. But despite her new fans, Jennie added: “I think she’d be amused and bemused by the comments on TikTok, but I don’t imagine that she’d really give them a second thought. I don’t think social media is her scene at all.”

The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared a personal message to mark VJ Day to remember the “the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all who served”.

Their powerful message comes after the King also paid tribute to those who fought and died in the Pacific and Far East during the Second Wolrd War, saying their service and sacrifice “shall never be forgotten”.

VJ Day on August 15 marks the anniversary of the end of the six-year-long war. Much of the celebration in 1945 focused on VE (Victory in Europe) Day in May, with those who served in the Far East labelled The Forgotten Army.

And in a special statement, William and Kate said: “Today, on the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, we remember the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all who served. Today we especially think of those British and Commonwealth troops who fought in the Asia-Pacific.

“We owe an enduring debt to the generation who gave so much, and to whom we will always be grateful. Lest we forget. W & C”.

William and Kate will not be at the national service of remembrance later today at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. However, it will be attended by the King, Queen Camilla and the Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

In his message from earlier today, Charles hailed the “courage and camaraderie” of heroes who fought in the Pacific and Far East in “humanity’s darkest hour” as “a flame that shall blaze for eternity”.

He also significantly acknowledged the devastation caused by the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki which led to Japan’s surrender, describing the “immense price” on its citizens as one “we pray no nation need ever pay again”.

His reflection on the nuclear attacks, which paved the way for the end of the Second World War, comes at a time of increased concern about the global threat of nuclear conflict.

In an audio message to the nation, realms and Commonwealth, the King spoke of the horrors faced by allied prisoners of war “who endured years of brutal captivity: the starvation, disease and cruelty that tested the very limits of human endurance”, and the “mental and physical scars” the war left on those who survived.

And he vowed the service and sacrifice of VJ Day heroes “shall never be forgotten”, telling their families and the “sadly dwindling band of veterans”: “Please know that the courage and camaraderie displayed in humanity’s darkest hour is a flame that shall blaze for eternity – a beacon that honours our past and guides our future.”

The King, in what is believed to be the most direct reference by a British monarch to the suffering in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, said it was right to pause and acknowledge the impact of the “war’s final act” on the people of the Japanese cities.

“Innocent civilian populations of occupied territories faced grievous hardships, too,” he said in the broadcast released at 7.30am today. “Their experience reminds us that war’s true cost extends beyond battlefields, touching every aspect of life – a tragedy all-too vividly demonstrated by conflicts around the world today.

“On this landmark anniversary, we should also pause to acknowledge that in the war’s final act, an immense price was paid by the citizens of Hiroshima and Nagasaki – a price we pray no nation need ever pay again.”

He added: “But in recalling so much suffering, we must not lose sight of how great was the cause and how sweet the victory.”

More than 90,000 British troops were casualties in the war against Japan, and nearly 30,000 died, while more than 12,000 Britons were among the 190,000 Commonwealth troops held as Prisoners of War by the Japanese. Of the Allied forces, the US suffered the greatest losses, with more than 100,000 killed in action.

In Hiroshima and Nagasaki, more than 200,000 people were killed by the US bombs and in the months after succumbing to radiation sickness, the effects of burns and other serious injuries.

Taylor Swift’s fans went wild when she announced her new album, Life of a Showgirl, but some have accused the Bad Blood billionaire of copying Aussie legend, Kylie Minogue

Taylor Swift has been slammed by some who have accused the Life of a Showgirl star of copying Kylie Minogue. The Bad Blood billionaire, 35, sent fans into a frenzy this week when she revealed her new album would be released on October 3 — just over a year and a half after the release of her 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department.

The Americana star poses to perfection on the new album cover, sporting a 1920s-style bejewelled headdress and barely-there bodysuit, encrusted with diamonds – and leaving very little to the imagination.

Looking longingly into the camera, Taylor leaves her long blonde hair loose and accessories with diamond cuffs, adorned with feathers, while sporting saucy fishnet tights. It comes as some accused the singer of risking alienating her fans with her new, sexed-up look.

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While many Swifties praised the star for her eye-popping new appearance, some reckoned Taylor had copied Aussie star, Kylie, who also posed as a showgirl for her album, Showgirl: The Greatest Hits Era.

Kylie commenced her Showgirl world tour in 2005 in Europe before travelling to her native Melbourne, where she was diagnosed with breast cancer, causing her to postpone the remaining dates.

Comparing the two pop icons, one fan said: “Kylie is the one and only showgirl! No shade to Taylor but Kylie is the ultimate.”

Meanwhile, another said: “There’s only one Showgirl and that’s Kylie!!” while a third person stated: “There is only one Showgirl and that’s our Kylie.”

However, responding to the claims, Kylie said there was room for everyone, as she took to Instagram, posting: “When all your friends start sending you your Showgirl mems!!! Awww.

“Showgirl life is ‘a thing’, multi dimensional and so much more than feathers and dazzle.

“Respect and admiration to all my fellow hard working Showgirls.”

Agreeing with Kylie, one of Taylor’s fans posted: “‘So is ‘showgirl’ only reserved for Kylie or what? Don’t get me wrong as I am a fan of both Kylie and Taylor… Was just wondering.”

Another said: “These comments dragging Taylor are exhausting. Kylie is one of my faves, but how about we stop pitting women against each other?”

Meanwhile, a third suggested the singers should record together, as they replied: “‘Kylie and Taylor should do a collab.”

It comes as Taylor confirmed the release of her latest album following weeks of speculation.

The pop star appeared on a podcast with her boyfriend, Super Bowl star, Travis Kelce, and his brother, Jason, which over 1.3 million people tuned in to.

Taylor is notoriously private and rarely gives interviews, however the Look What You Made Do star offered an insight into the album, which will be released in October.

Life Of A Showgirl, which she wrote on her Eras Tour and recorded to in Sweden, will feature 12 tracks, including a duet with Sabrina Carpenter. Speaking about the album, Taylor said: “This album is about what was going on behind the scenes in my inner life during this tour, which was so exuberant and electric and vibrant.”

READ MORE: At-home laser device Sabrina Carpenter never travels without for ‘younger looking’ skin

The high street retailer is stocking a ‘dazzling’ pair of shoes that resemble a pricier alternative

Primark is stocking a pair of ‘dazzling’ £22 shoes that resemble a designer style. The fashion retailer, known for its affordable clothing, shoes, and accessories, could have a new crowd-pleaser on its hands.

The high street chain has introduced new Spiral Diamante Heeled Sandals, available in cream or black, which look similar to a designer pair from Kurt Geiger. However, the KG Kurt Geiger Athena Sandals, available in black, gold or silver from Next for £99, retail for a much higher price.

Both pairs share similarities, as they each feature a spiral design that wraps around the ankle, sparkly embellishments, and a stiletto heel. However, the shoes are not completely identical, and shoppers may have their preferences between the shoes, which vary in colour and construction.

The product description for the black Primark shoes says: “Step into sparkle with these black spiral diamante heeled sandals. The slim stiletto heel and square toe create a sleek base, while two slim front straps shimmer with hotfix rhinestones.

“The standout spiral ankle strap wraps elegantly around your leg, covered in sparkling crystals for a bold, eye-catching look. With no buckle closure, the coiling strap offers a unique fit and style. Perfect for adding drama to your evening outfit, these sandals bring a dazzling finish that’s sure to turn heads.”

Meanwhile, the product description for the black Kurt Geiger shoes states: “This Athena heel is crafted in gold with a gold crystal embellished spiral ankle strap. The heel is in a high stiletto style. Heel height: 9cm.”

Primark’s offering has proven popular on social media. TikTok user @prmrkmeadowhall recently showcased the two Primark pairs in a video that earned over 60,000 views and more than 3,000 likes. The caption said: “GORGEOUS heels in at Primark! Designer inspired heels for just £22!” Viewers loved what they saw. One commenter praised: “Too cute.”

Someone wrote: “Now would u look at that. Primark can you bring chandelier heels in gold.” Meanwhile, another fan tagged a fellow social media user, writing: “I need the white ones so if you see them get them for me please n thankyouuuuu.” Their friend replied: “Very cutesy.”

As such, Primark’s offering could be a tempting alternative for fans of the Kurt Geiger style looking for a similar look for less. Alternatively, shoppers searching for a different diamante style might like Primark’s £20 Diamante Strappy Heeled Sandal, a more subtle style that resembles the ‘dazzling’ pair but does not have a spiral ankle strap.

Available in nude, the shoes are not an exact colour match for the other pair, but they could be just the ticket for fans looking for another elegant diamante style. The product description states: “Turn heads in these diamante strappy heeled sandals.

Countless videos about Princess Anne’s bold vintage fashion and her knack for recycling her outfits has earned her a whole new legion of fans on TikTok

Celebrating turning 75 today, Princess Anne has been given the unexpected title of ‘Queen of Recycling’ by TikTokkers who regard her as a fashion icon – despite her famous declaration that she would not go near social media “if you paid me.”

Gen Z can’t get enough of the accidental fashionista, who has released a picture to mark her birthday wearing a colour-block navy dress with white trim, which she was first pictured in at The King’s Foundation Awards at St James’ Palace in June.

Countless videos about the Princess Royal are getting thousands of views on TikTok, where influencers admire her bold outfits from the 1970s and commend her for recycling clothes – making them look fantastic at royal engagements 50 years on.

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Back in the 70s and 80s, Anne’s formal style consisted of brightly coloured tailored dresses and long, flowing floral gowns. Off duty, she often wore traditional country casuals, such as jeans and statement scarves.

And for one Tik Toker, Simon Glazin, who has an account dedicated to royal fashion from around the world, Princess Anne is a firm favourite.

Of her latest picture, he says: “I think we know by now that Anne is a superstar of the British Royal Family, Pictures and videos of her always show her smiling and having a sense of fun.

“And what a perfect dress too – demure yet statement, something she does so well, and one of her favourite colours – navy.

“We know she’s the queen of recycling her looks, and whilst most of us can’t wait to buy something new for birthday celebrations, she has chosen to re-wear this dress from June this year.

“In June she wore it with matching blue gloves, but I much prefer it without. It’s a great colour on Anne.”

The fashion blogger, who has almost 48,000 followers, regularly posts about Anne – with one post on her top five recycled looks receiving more than 100,000 views.

He says the vivid colours, bold prints and sleek tailoring, she wore in the 1970s established her as a trendsetter and, by rewearing outfits, she is now grabbing the attention of the younger generation. He explains: “What I love about her is it seems she is a bit oblivious that she is a fashion icon. Or if she does know it is a genius move.

“Definitely back in the 1970s, she wore some incredible stuff. There is an iconic picture of her where she is wearing this blue striped shirt with jeans with this amazing belt buckle and this necktie, which could be on the cover of Vogue right now.

“The 70s was definitely her era, but what is interesting about Princess Anne is that she will bring something back from the 70s and wear it now.” It is the sustainable element of her style that resonates with the TikTok generation.

Simon says: “From my TikTok I see the comments from people when I talk about Princess Anne and they are usually from younger people talking about how they never knew she recycled clothes.

“Because we now live in this very green conscious world, younger generations are really into recycling stuff with second-hand shops and thrift shops.

“When I did a video on her old 70s looks, the comments were overwhelming. They were all saying ‘I didn’t realise she wore this’, ‘I didn’t realise she had it in her’, ‘I didn’t know a royal could dress like that’. The comments are always from younger people saying ‘I would wear that now’.”

Prestigious Italian fashion house Fendi even remarked on her sustainable style, calling her “the chicest woman in the world” and praising her ability to “underline garments for life, not use and throw away”.

And Strictly host Claudia Winkleman said her wardrobe for the latest series of TV’s The Traitors was inspired by the princess.

Simon adds: “Most recently, she has been seen loads wearing these really cool Adidas ski sunglasses, and she was really ahead of the curve wearing them. It was really funny because you then saw them starting popping up on catwalks.

“There was this most incredible white, floral, to the floor dress she wore that had boho vibes with long sleeves with frills over it and oversized print over it, which is very now.

“There’s also an outfit from a village fete, where she nipped in her waist and wore a little cap sleeve, she did that quite a lot and this shirt dress vibe is very now too – we’ve seen it at Chloe and Celine on the catwalk.

“I think more than anything, we all love Princess Anne because you could imagine her not giving two hoots what people think. Like Princess Margaret, they both knew they weren’t going to be Queen, so I feel like this allowed them to do this.

A Californian TikTokker, posting as Allie – The Royalty Nerd – has 73,000 followers and posts saying she “loves” Anne’s 70s’ style, raving about the dress she wore when she became engaged to Captain Mark Phillips in 1973.

“It is so beautiful. The dress would also make a cute wedding dress nowadays too,” she posted, adding: “Anne also keeps her clothes forever and often rewears things which I really appreciate.”

London-based fashion expert Miranda Holder, who has 178,000 TikTok followers,is also an enthusiastic Anne supporter. She posted:”There’s been some epic fashion – and there still is – from Princess Anne, and there is a lot we can learn from her I salute you Anne, you are indeed a great fashion icon.”