The reason Princess Anne missed Kate Middleton's carol service revealed as she steps out of her comfort zone in showstopping brocade coat

Princess Anne's brocade coat and horse brooch combination perfectly fitted the event she attended, The London Equestrian Show. Lover of all things equine, and former Olympian, Anne chose the event over the Princess of Wales' carol service.

• Princess Anne's brocade coat was an ideal choice for the important equine event.
• Although she didn't attend the Princess of Wales' carol service event, she brought just as much glam as her fellow Royal Family females did at Westminister Abbey.
• In other royal news, Prince William spotted at ex-girlfriend's Christmas wedding without Kate Middleton.

As Princess Anne's brocade coat shows, this hardworking royal isn't afraid of pulling out a little extra glam for special events. The London International Horse Show is an absolute must for horse fans, royal or otherwise, and it's no surprise that of all the Royal Family - HRH Princess Anne made her way to the show.

Choosing a stylish navy and gold brocade coat, Princess Anne looked utterly delighted as she took in the marvelous show, which was held over the entire weekend. Her appearance was to award a few lucky prize winners, including the Raymond Brooks-Ward Memorial Trophy to eventing world champion Yasmin Ingham.

Previously, Princess Anne reflected on her olympian past in a heartfelt video, which proved how important being involved in the horse world is to her. The royal said at the time, “I do remember from my own Olympic journey, the anticipation and the excitement of stepping onto the Olympic stage. But also, the single-minded focus on what you need to do." 

Although she may not have won gold, her style choices are increasing proof that she's a winner and Princess Anne's brocade coat was an absolute showstopper. Fashion fans may be interested in a similar style from high street legends Jigsaw, which is on sale as we speak.

Brocade Evening Coat Was £295, Now £177 | Jigsaw

Stylish evening coat cut from soft wool twill and contrast gold brocade paneling, similar to Princess Anne's brocade coat.

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The Princess of Wales hosted her second annual Christmas carol service, which paid tribute to the life and work of the late Queen Elizabeth II. As the title of the event suggests, it's all about working with each other and fostering a peaceful, supportive, kind existence.

Princess Anne's daughter, Zara Tindall, attended the Princess of Wales' carol service, as did other members of the Royal Family including Sophie, Countess Wessex, King Charles, Camilla Queen Consort, and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.

During a reading, Prince William shared how the late monarch was, "always struck by the spirit of togetherness," during the Christmas season, adding that it's a time, "when we remember that God sent his only son 'to serve, not to be served.'"

Although this speech had a message with religious intent, many believe that it's a not-so-subtle reference to the Prince of Wales' ongoing feud with his brother Prince Harry. A feud has undoubtedly intensified in the weeks following the release of Prince Harry and Meghan's Netflix documentary. The second volume of the docuseries saw Prince Harry open up about Mexit talks and referring to his brother 'screaming' at him during more tense moments.