However, the piece has not remained entirely untouched. The dramatic concentric-circle collar from 1969 has been replaced with a simpler, more understated version. Rather than commissioning a new garment, Anne is believed to have updated the existing one through a dressmaker, staying true to her well-known practical approach to fashion.
At the banquet, she wore the coat fully closed, pairing it with a blue sash, a tiara, layered pearl necklaces, and her official honours. The result was a refined and dignified ensemble suited to the formal setting. Her husband, Timothy Laurence, accompanied her in full evening uniform.
Public Reaction: Admiration and Amazement
The reaction from the public was overwhelmingly positive. Many were impressed not only by the coat’s longevity but also by how well it still fit.
Some praised the timeless quality of the garment, noting that classic tailoring allows pieces to remain relevant across decades. Others admired Anne’s consistency, pointing out her long-standing reputation for rewearing and preserving clothing.