Carey Mulligan didn’t just receive a CBE—Commander of the Order of the British Empire—from King Charles III at Windsor Castle yesterday; she subtly introduced a new silhouette to royal protocol. While the event typically calls for midi dresses and fascinators, Mulligan opted for an embroidered, stand-collar ivory jacket and notably relaxed, barrel-leg trousers from The Row, paired with oversized Jacques Marie Mage sunglasses. The choice, a reflection of the actor’s commitment to comfort, sparked a quiet fashion moment and underscored Mulligan’s position as a consistently understated yet influential style icon.
The award itself recognizes Mulligan’s significant contributions to drama, a career spanning two decades and encompassing critically acclaimed roles in films like “An Education,” “Promising Young Woman,” and most recently, “Maestro.” The CBE is a Member of the Order of the British Empire honor, recognizing outstanding achievement or service. The official Royal Family website details the various levels of the Order of the British Empire, with Commanders being the third rank. More information about the Order of the British Empire can be found on the Royal Family’s website.
Mulligan’s style choices have been gaining increasing attention, particularly her dedication to comfort without sacrificing sophistication. She recently starred in Prada’s Spring 2026 campaign, a collaboration that seems to align with her personal aesthetic. “I just sense my best when I’m comfortable,” Mulligan told Vogue during a discussion of the campaign. “Not just when I’m slouching around the house, but for dinner or going to an event, too. I always want to feel like a slightly more polished version of myself.” This philosophy was clearly in play at Windsor Castle, where she traded the expected formality for a more relaxed, modern approach.
Pool/Getty Images
A Consistent Style Evolution
This isn’t an isolated incident. Mulligan’s red carpet appearances, particularly during the 2024 awards season for her performance in “Maestro,” demonstrated a similar commitment to thoughtful, often unconventional choices. She notably wore a recreation of a 1951 Balenciaga gown to the Academy Awards, a waist-cinching, mermaid-tail silhouette that British Vogue’s Alice Newbold declared the look of the season. The gown, which Mulligan herself called her “favorite” dress to date, was a masterclass in timeless elegance and a departure from the often-predictable choices seen on the red carpet. Her stylist, Danielle Goldberg, has been instrumental in shaping this aesthetic, consistently prioritizing pieces that feel authentic to Mulligan’s personality.
The influence of The Row, the minimalist luxury brand founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, is also apparent in Mulligan’s wardrobe. The brand is known for its understated elegance, impeccable tailoring, and focus on quality materials. Barrel-leg trousers, like those worn at Windsor Castle, are a signature silhouette for The Row, offering a relaxed yet refined alternative to skinny or straight-leg styles. The choice speaks to a broader trend in fashion towards looser, more comfortable fits, but Mulligan’s execution feels particularly deliberate, and chic.
Beyond the Red Carpet: Mulligan’s Upcoming Projects
Mulligan’s influence extends beyond fashion. She is currently starring in Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia,” slated for release later this year. She will portray Mabel Kirke, the eccentric and kind aunt who provides a safe haven for the Pevensie children. The film is expected to be a major cinematic event, and Mulligan’s involvement adds to the already considerable buzz. Production wrapped in December 2023, according to Deadline, and post-production is currently underway.
The choice of barrel-leg trousers at Windsor Castle, while seemingly minor, feels emblematic of Mulligan’s broader approach to both her career and her personal style: a quiet confidence, a willingness to subvert expectations, and a commitment to authenticity. It’s a reminder that style isn’t about following rules, but about finding what makes you feel most comfortable and empowered.
As Mulligan prepares for the release of “Narnia,” and continues to navigate a successful career, her fashion choices will undoubtedly remain a point of interest. The next confirmed appearance for the actor is expected to be promotional events surrounding the film’s release, offering further opportunities to witness her evolving style. What are your thoughts on Carey Mulligan’s fashion choices? Share your opinions in the comments below.
