King Charles has been dubbed an “absolute trailblazer” by fashion designer Dame Anya Hindmarch after she was honoured at Buckingham Palace today.
On Tuesday, the English designer was formally made a Dame Commander and was honoured for services to fashion and business, with her designs having been worn by multiple royals themselves including the Princess of Wales.
After meeting the King today, Dame Anya said she was “most proud of” building a company and her “very important” work on sustainability, which included her I’m Not A Plastic Bag tote line.
She also praised the monarch, 76, for his own environmental efforts, referring to him as an “absolute trailblazer”.
Speaking about her conversation with Charles, said: “We did speak about the environment, and he’s always been an absolute trailblazer actually, really so early on and has been a real inspiration.”
She continued: “We spoke about landfill and we spoke about alternatives to materials that won’t break down, so that was an interesting conversation.
“We spoke about nettles actually and the amazing things you can do with nettles.”
As well as Princess Kate having previously sported Dame Anya’s designs, Prince William’s cousin Princess Eugenie, 34, has also donned some of the designer’s pieces.
This included one of Dame Anya’s “crisp packet” clutch bags, which Prince Andrew’s daughter was spotted with at the wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews in 2017.
Among the other guests honoured today at the Palace include professional Strictly dancer Amy Dowden, who received the distinguished title of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) from King Charles III.
The MBE is among the highest honors awarded by the British monarchy, recognising individuals who have contributed exceptionally to society.