Do skinny jeans prove you’re posh? As they come roaring back into fashion, the royal women who never gave them up

In a world where fashion trends ebb and flow with the seasons, one style has proven its enduring appeal: the humble skinny jean. 

These versatile trousers have transcended mere casual wear to become a staple in the wardrobes of some of the most stylish royal women. 

From the polished looks of Kate Middleton to the effortless chic of Meghan Markle, and even the elegant embrace of skinny jeans by Queen Camilla, these royals are redefining how to wear denim. 

Whether paired with trainers while running errands, ankle boots for a meeting or statement heels on a special occasion, the form-fitting silhouette seamlessly transitions from day to night. 

‘Thanks to their immaculate fit, skinny jeans offer the perfect base for a smart casual outfit for the Royal Family. Anything looser can become messy and doesn’t photograph as well,’ says Donna Ida, who launched her eponymous denim brand in 2012.

Ms Ida also believes the popularity of skinny jeans is partly down to ‘their practicality and ability to deliver a chic, timeless look with minimal effort’.

She continues: ‘Skinnies are so perfect for knee-high boots and wellies. They tuck in neatly, keep you warm and dry, and look so smart teamed with a blazer. It’s a classic look.’ 

Kate removed her jacket to play sports in her skinny jeans at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre in 2023

Several royal women have been sporting skinny jeans for years, with the Princess of Wales being a prominent example. 

Since joining the royal family, Kate has consistently worn this shape and now boasts several fashionable yet practical options in her wardrobe.

On World Mental Health Day 2023, she paired indigo Mother jeans with a double-breasted Zara blazer and her reliable Veja trainers, achieving an effortlessly stylish aesthetic. 

This ankle-length style is ideal for casual occasions, best complemented by a fitted T-shirt and long blazer, making Kate’s outfit choice impeccable.

Her collection also features black Zara Premium jeans, which she often wears for outdoor engagements and off-duty events.

She has opted for the high-waisted design on three occasions, notably pairing them with a Barbour wax jacket and Penelope Chilvers knee-high boots during a trip to Ireland in 2020.

In the early years of her marriage, Kate frequently wore slim-fit J. Brand 811 jeans, a US-made design that accompanied her on trips to Canada, Olympic events and even private travel, including a holiday to Mustique with Prince George in 2014. 

Her collection also features Zara Premium skimming black jeans (left), which she often wears for outdoor engagements and off-duty events. In the early years of her marriage, Kate frequently wore her slim-fit J. Brand 811 jeans (right)

Likewise, her sister-in-law Meghan has demonstrated how to elevate skinny jeans into a polished look. 

She owns five pairs from Mother, in addition to variations from luxury brands La Ligne, Anine Bing, Frame and Madewell. 

The former Suits actress showcases the versatility of skinny jeans by pairing them with ballet flats, knee-high boots or heels, depending on the occasion.

A standout piece in her closet is white Frame ‘Le Skinny de Jeanne’ cropped slit jeans, which she wore at the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf and the One Year To Go event in February.

Initially, she styled these jeans with a Ralph Lauren sweater and Aquazzura flats, later swapping to a Calvin Klein puffer coat and Sorel snow boots to accommodate the cooler weather.

Meghan also possesses several iterations of black skinny jeans for both official events and off-duty days. 

She recently teamed her La Ligne ‘Valerie’ jeans, crafted from soft stretch cotton, with a Sentaler cape and sleek riding boots from Co, creating a sophisticated look. 

Meghan’s affinity for skinny jeans dates back to before her marriage to Prince Harry.

Shortly after they went public, she was spotted wearing ripped Mother jeans, paired with an aptly named ‘Husband’ shirt, while attending the Invictus Games in Toronto. 

Employing staple pieces, such as a button-down shirt and pumps, Meghan has created a uniform that illustrates the power of a flattering pair of denim jeans. 

Initially, Meghan styled her white Frame jeans with a Ralph Lauren sweater and Aquazzura flats, later swapping to a Calvin Klein puffer coat and Sorel snow boots for cooler weather

Meghan paired her La Ligne ‘Valerie’ jeans with a Sentaler cape and sleek riding boots from Co, creating a sophisticated look

Sophie typically opts for versatile skinny jeans and knee-high boots. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Lady Louise Windsor has also embraced skinny jeans

Zara Tindall is another royal who appreciates the timeless silhouette, especially for relaxed or sporty occasions

Queen Camilla occasionally dons jeans, accessorising blue skinny styles with Hunter Wellington boots for strolls around Sandringham, showcasing the versatility of this wardrobe staple

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, has also favoured skinny jeans in recent years. 

She typically opts for versatile mid-wash blue and olive shades, teaming her slim-fit denim with a variety of footwear, including knee-high boots, trainers and espadrilles.

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Lady Louise Windsor has embraced skinny jeans, often pairing them with trainers and boots of varying heights. 

As a teenager, she selected colourful options, once styling a pair of purple skinny jeans with a tweed blazer and leather boots.

Recently, however, Louise has been seen in muted cream-coloured jeans while participating in the Windsor Park Carriage Driving Trials.

Zara Tindall is another royal who appreciates the timeless silhouette, especially for relaxed or sporty occasions. 

While she knows how to impress with her formal attire, Zara’s casual style is equally impressive, as she often opts for flattering high-waisted styles in white or blue.

Even Queen Camilla occasionally dons jeans, accessorising blue skinny styles with loafers or Hunter Wellington boots for strolls around Sandringham, showcasing the versatility of this wardrobe staple.