While most people dream of one day stepping into a royal setting, few can afford to do it in such expensive style.
But for Harriet Sperling, girlfriend of King Charles’s nephew Peter Phillips, the Royal Ascot was more than just a day out—it was a fashion statement with a staggering price tag.
The NHS nurse turned heads as she arrived in a carriage, dressed from head to toe in luxury labels that racked up to nearly £3,720.
Fashion Fit for Royal Company
Harriet, 45, clearly understood the assignment.
Dressed in an elegant ivory outfit by Suzannah London—a designer already popular among royals—she wore a puff-sleeved cropped jacket priced at £890 and a coordinating skirt for £995.
Her accessories came from Emmy London, a brand frequently worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales, and Zara Tindall.
The £395 clutch and £495 pumps were both re-wears, but her head-turning Awon Golding Millinery hat, costing £945, was a fresh addition to her Ascot wardrobe.
That designer also happens to be a favorite of Meghan Markle’s.
Royal Seal of Approval for Harriet
Being included in the royal carriage procession is no small thing.
For Harriet, it marked a major milestone in her relationship with Peter Phillips.
According to royal expert Ian Lloyd, this kind of inclusion usually only happens after an engagement—something Queen Elizabeth was very particular about.
Harriet seems to have already surpassed those boundaries, suggesting a warm welcome from the royal circle.
From Hospital to High Society
Harriet isn’t just a fashionista—she’s a dedicated paediatric nurse working in the NHS.
Living in Gloucestershire, her role likely pays somewhere between £37,000 and £58,000 a year.
So her high-end outfit was definitely a splurge, or perhaps a well-thought-out investment for such a prestigious occasion.
Her walk into Ascot was not just glamorous but meaningful—symbolic of how far she’s come both personally and socially.
Making the Rounds in the Royal Scene
Harriet and Peter began dating shortly after his 2022 breakup with longtime partner Lindsay Wallace.
Since then, they’ve become a staple on the high society circuit—spotted at Wimbledon, the Badminton Horse Trials, and Cheltenham Races.
At Ascot, Harriet was seen mingling with Princess Anne on the balcony, and Zara Tindall even helped fix her hat, showing clear signs of acceptance.
A Life of Service Before the Spotlight
Harriet’s medical background includes some incredible moments, including being part of the team that saved the life of a critically ill infant named Phineas back in 2010.
Her work was highlighted in a photo tribute published in The Guardian Weekend Magazine by the child’s father, photographer Michael Cockerham.
Hidden Connections to Royalty and Brewing Legacy
While she may now be known as Peter Phillips’ stylish partner, Harriet has her own impressive heritage.
According to The Telegraph, she’s related to the Duke of Gloucester through her late father.
Her family tree also includes Christopher Courage, a descendant of the man who founded Courage Brewery.
Though little is known about her ex-husband, Harriet has a daughter who is thought to be close in age to Peter’s daughters Savannah, 14, and Isla, 12, from his previous marriage to Autumn Phillips.
Royal Romance After Divorce
Peter and his ex-wife Autumn called it quits in 2020 after 13 years of marriage, but they’ve continued to co-parent their daughters.
Since then, Harriet has been a consistent presence at Peter’s side—and judging by her royal carriage appearance, she’s clearly received the family’s nod of approval.
Dressing the Part at Ascot
While the Windsor Enclosure allows guests a bit more flexibility, strict dress codes rule the Royal and Queen Anne Enclosures at Ascot.
Hats or “hatinators” with at least a 10cm base are a must, along with dresses that fall at least to the knee.
Strapless or one-shouldered styles are banned, as are spaghetti straps.
Even shorts are off the table. Trouser suits are allowed—but they must match.
Since 2017, jumpsuits have been accepted too, as long as they meet the formality requirements.
And while men’s shoes are strictly regulated, women have more freedom with their footwear.
Harriet’s Day in the Spotlight
Between her striking appearance, her growing place in the royal inner circle, and her remarkable work in healthcare, Harriet Sperling made more than just a fashion statement at Royal Ascot—she made an impression.
Whether this signals a royal engagement in the near future or simply reflects a blossoming romance accepted by the family, one thing’s certain: Harriet knows how to stand out.