Princess Beatrice embraced a sense of 1990s fashion nostalgia during her appearance at Easter Sunday service at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor, showcasing a polished and contemporary take on a shoe trend popular in that decade: the Mary Jane.
On this occasion, the royal donned a deep forest green Ahana long-sleeve dress by Beulah London. The dress featured a structured silhouette with a flattering belted waist, puffed shoulders, and pearl-button detailing, all of which contributed to a refined yet romantic representation of traditional royal attire.
Complementing her outfit, Princess Beatrice wore Onna satin pumps by Emilia Wickstead—a sophisticated reinterpretation of the classic Mary Jane shoe. The rich green shoes matched her dress perfectly, while their block heels and delicate ankle straps melded nostalgic charm with a polished modern finish.
The Mary Jane shoe holds an intriguing history. Katherine Gallaugher of Ohio State University explained that although the shoes are often connected to girlhood experiences, they were originally designed as boy’s shoes called Buster Browns. This name derived from a comic strip from the early 1900s featuring a character named Buster Brown, who wore these shoes. He was accompanied by another character named Mary Jane, and over time, the feminine version of the shoe adopted her name.
Adding a final touch to her ensemble, Princess Beatrice wore a sparkling gold headband, perfect for the springtime occasion. She also accessorised with a black mini flap bag, offering a classic element of understated luxury. Her hair was styled in soft, sweeping waves.
Easter Sunday service traditionally sees members of the royal family attending in formal spring wear, often opting for pastel colours and modest cuts. The event is a significant moment in the royal calendar, serving both as a religious observance and a public-style occasion rich in heritage and symbolism.
Working closely with her stylist Olivia Buckingham, Princess Beatrice’s style has matured over recent years into a blend of youthful sophistication and timeless elegance. Formerly known for bold fashion choices, she now frequently selects streamlined, elegant silhouettes, favouring high-end British labels that balance classic and contemporary elements.
Her choice to feature Mary Jane heels, especially in sumptuous satin fabric and a jewel tone, was a thoughtful way to combine tradition with current trends. The royal’s ensemble appeared to resonate with the resurgence of '90s fashion, offering a modern appreciation of a shoe style that has clearly endured through the decades.
Source: Noah Wire Services