The world witnessed King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain's grand arrival at Westminster Abbey on May 6 for the coronation of King Charles, a moment that marked a significant shift in her fashion trajectory. Her choice of a pink Carolina Herrera suit — the color that took the spring season by storm —, matching accessories and a made-in-Spain Pamela by Balel Luxury Hats catapulted her to the top of the best-dressed royals list, a position she's confidently maintained.
But this ascent wasn't without its challenges. From a journalist to a princess and now a confident Queen, Letizia's style evolution signifies a journey of self-assurance, embracing a wardrobe that exudes confidence and elegance.
Two qualities that lead her to take more and more risks, to show off and show off her figure unashamedly, to shine both Queen Sofia's jewelry or her own, to show off her long locks, to include in her shoe rack the latest models from major brands and to show off details befitting of a Hollywood red carpet.
Letizia's closet has undergone a clear evolution that now, at the age of 51, and nine years after becoming Queen Consort, has made her one of the most admired royals in the world.
Fashion experts dissect her style evolution into distinct phases, mirroring her royal progression. Each phase reflects deliberate communication strategies within royal households, from classic conservatism to embracing contemporary trends, illustrating the monarchy's evolution.
The first phase, according to Jesús Reyes, fashion journalist and author of the book Leonor. Estilo de una Borbón y Ortiz, "goes from her entry into the royal family until after her marriage to Felipe. The second, from her wedding until her arrival to the throne as Queen consort. Finally, the Queen, when we see her relaxed, confident and with an impeccable style".
A strategy of the royal households
Marina Fernández, director of Communication and International Relations at the International School of Protocol, has a similar opinion. She speaks of "two very different phases: her time as Princess, when she worked with a very classic and conservative style, with all those designs by Felipe Varela, to create an image outside trends, and her time as Queen".
"When Letizia became Queen Consort, she took a step forward," Fernandez continues, "and a very clear stylistic evolution can be seen: she takes much more risks, reflects fashion trends and adapts her wardrobe to the event she is going to attend."
Queen among queens
Stylists like Elena Esteban note Letizia's growth while suggesting areas for further style exploration. Her recent choice of a pink Carolina Herrera suit for King Charles III's coronation earned global admiration, placing her among the best-dressed royals.
Collaborating with stylist Eva Fernández marks a turning point in her fashion journey, aiming to style not just Queen Letizia but also the core women of the Spanish royal family.
Internationally, her fashion impact was evident even before her accession to the throne, particularly during the Danish royal wedding. Her consistent contemporary and feminine style resonates with her aesthetic maturity, positioning her as a fashion icon for Spain.
More than just a wardrobe, Queen Letizia is crafting a brand, as highlighted by protocol expert Marina Fernández, innovating within the royal realm by constantly evolving her image, creating the Letizia brand.
Predicting her next steps, fashion experts advocate for a blend of foreign designer pieces and a touch of Spanish flamenco-inspired elements. As she continues to champion 'made in Spain' labels, Queen Letizia remains a shining example and a remarkable ambassador for Spanish fashion, signaling the beginning of the Letizia effect.