Hair Through the Decades: Princess Anne's Evolving Style
The royal family has always been under the spotlight, and their fashion choices often spark interest and even set trends. Princess Anne, the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, has inadvertently become a hair icon, showcasing a range of styles that reflect the changing trends and her own personal evolution. What's fascinating is how her hairstyles have not only followed but also influenced the times.
The 60s: Prim and Polished
In the swinging 60s, Princess Anne embraced a look that was both glamorous and practical. A recently unearthed photo from 1967 reveals a young Anne, aged 17, with her iconic '60s curls. This style, with its neat side part and voluminous roots, was a far cry from her 'wild' childhood hair, marking a transition into a more refined era. The photo, taken during a train journey with her brother, Prince Charles, showcases a polished Anne, her hair tucked behind her ears, exuding a sense of sophistication.
A Hair Icon in the Making
What makes Princess Anne's hair choices intriguing is their evolution. She has experimented with various lengths and styles, each reflecting a different phase of her life. In the 70s, she opted for long curtain bangs and feathered layers, a look that was 'expensive' and on-trend. This period marked a time of change, as she stepped into adulthood and married Mark Phillips. Her hair, like her life, was transforming.
Fast forward to the 80s, and Anne embraced the era's trends with waist-length, Rapunzel-like hair, a style that many women aspired to. This phase highlights how Princess Anne's hair choices were not just about fashion but also about self-expression. As actress Erin Doherty, who portrays her in 'The Crown', suggests, Anne's hair and fashion were her outlets for expression within the constraints of royal life.
Practicality Meets Glamour
In recent years, Princess Anne has favored a more practical approach to her hair, opting for a signature 10-minute updo. This style, a French twist she does herself, is a testament to her busy schedule and the need for efficiency. However, this simplicity is a stark contrast to the hours spent on her hair for 'The Crown', as revealed by Doherty and the show's hair designer, Cate Hall. They highlight the importance of Anne's hair in character development, emphasizing its natural thickness and wavy texture.
In my opinion, Princess Anne's hair journey is a fascinating reflection of her personality and the times she has lived through. From the prim and proper 60s to the experimental 70s and the glamorous 80s, her hairstyles have evolved, much like the woman herself. It's a reminder that hair is not just about style; it's a form of self-expression, a way to make a statement, and sometimes, a means to break free from expectations.
In conclusion, Princess Anne's hair story is a captivating journey through the decades, offering a unique perspective on fashion, royalty, and personal evolution. It's a reminder that even the most practical of hairstyles can have a rich history and a story to tell.