Everyone orders by mail these days, even royals. Recently, Ann Taylor received an order for a double-breasted jacket in pink wool crepe and black pleated skirt.

The instructions were to "bill to Her Royal Highness the Duchess of York," said Geri Savidge, a spokeswoman for Ann Taylor, who added that the order was confirmed by her official dresser.

The duchess must have seen the outfit in Vogue, Ms. Savidge said, the only place it was advertised.