Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, rang in her 60th birthday by posing for an official portrait in a white Proenza Schouler coat paired with a brown turtleneck and wide-leg bright green pants. The elegant yet modern look paired with a bold splash of color–a welcome departure from the conservative power suits she wore in her early royal days–showed just how far Duchess Sophie’s style has come over the years.

Kate Middleton found a mentor in Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh when she was first welcomed into the royal fold, but their warm working relationship has developed into an even closer sisterly bond amid Kate’s cancer battle.

Duchess Sophie marked her 60th birthday on Monday, Jan. 20, and along with some gorgeous new photos released for the occasion, Prince Edward's wife is allegedly planning a special black-tie party with the Princess of Wales and other royal guests.