Former Wife of Duke
If a marriage between a duke and duchess has been dissolved, the former wife (although no longer a peeress) may continue to use her title as a duke's wife, preceded by her forename (unless she remarries*).
How to address the Former Wife of a Duke:
The recommended (social) style of address is as follows:
|
Beginning of letter |
Dear Duchess |
|
End of letter |
Yours sincerely |
|
Envelope |
Victoria, Duchess of Mayfair |
|
Verbal communication |
Duchess |
|
Invitation |
Victoria, Duchess of Mayfair |
|
Description in conversation |
The Duchess of Mayfair |
|
List of Directors or Patrons |
Victoria, Duchess of Mayfair |
|
Place card |
Victoria, Duchess of Mayfair |
|
Legal document |
Victoria Duchess of Mayfair |
*If the former wife of a duke subsequently remarries she adopts her style of address from her present husband. Thus if Jillian, Duchess of Hamilton, marries Mr Cuthbert Robinson she becomes Mrs Cuthbert Robinson.
