In a recent segment of the fashion special "Palace Confidential," royal experts discussed the evolving style of Catherine, Princess of Wales, known for her striking combination of classic country attire and haute couture. Throughout her public engagements, Catherine, better known as Kate Middleton, consistently showcases her ability to blend tradition with contemporary fashion trends, often reflecting the mantra of her late grandmother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth II: "You are there, and you need to be seen." The discussion highlighted a series of her standout outfits, marking her as a true fashion icon on the royal scene.
One of the standout moments came during a state visit to South Korea, where Catherine made a strong impression in a vivid red cape-style coat by Catherine Walker, complemented by a matching hat. This outfit not only demonstrated her flair for fashion but also captured the attention of onlookers, as Daily Mail’s Royal Editor Rebecca English pointed out, stating, "You knew she had arrived and all eyes were on her." Further exemplifying her style prowess, Catherine donned another striking red ensemble—a Catherine Walker dress and hat—at the Commonwealth Day service earlier this month.
Interestingly, these items are not new additions to her wardrobe. Catherine first sported the hat in 2014 when her first son, Prince George, was just a baby, and this is the third occasion she has worn that eye-catching coat. Her ability to re-use staple pieces not only underscores sustainability in fashion but also illustrates her timeless appeal. Behind much of this fashion success is her stylist, Natasha Jackson, who has worked closely with Catherine since 2007. Natasha has proven to be an invaluable asset, frequently seen hand-in-hand with the princess during royal tours and public appearances.
Narguably, one of Catherine's fashion secrets is sticking to classic designs while subtly incorporating trendy items. Standing at an elegant height with a naturally slender figure, she makes any outfit appear polished and chic. In July 2023, for instance, Catherine attended the Ladies' Singles final at Wimbledon, looking stunning in an outfit from Self-Portrait, proving that she can radiate grace and elegance even in more casual settings.
Her appearance at more informal events also speaks volumes. Last year, during a visit to the University of Nottingham, Catherine chose to wear a Sezane woolen two-piece skirt set, perfectly balancing the casual and the sophisticated. English noted how this style comes naturally to Catherine, saying, "The look comes naturally to her because she's from a country background - that's her comfort zone." This innate visibility establishes a strong connection with the public, where people view her fashion choices as not just a display of individuality but also a reflection of relatable traits.
In her commitment to promoting fashion for small businesses, Catherine has been known to wear pieces from independent designers. Notably, she wore earrings from the Welsh brand Spells of Love during a trip to Wales, which are valued between £40 and £60. English recounted that the designer was moved by the exposure, stating, "You don’t know what this has done for my business. It has sent it stratospheric." This successful collaboration exemplifies how royal influence can significantly boost the profile of smaller companies and local craftsmanship.
The royal stylist Natasha has not only supported Catherine in terms of fashion but has also been recognized for her contributions. She was appointed a Member of the Royal Victorian Order in 2019, reflecting her dedication and service to the royal family. Natasha's journey from a personal assistant to a prominent stylist isn’t just a personal success story but attests to how vital behind-the-scenes roles contribute to the royal image.
Catherine’s sartorial choices have not only captivated the public but also seemed to inspire her peers. Another royal, Princess Beatrice, has transformed her style under the guidance of her new stylist, Olivia Buckingham. Beatrice, once known for her fashion faux pas, including the notorious ‘pretzel hat’ worn at Prince William’s wedding in 2011, has made significant strides. She wowed the public recently in a cream Self-Portrait outfit adorned with charming bow details, an evolution applauded by critics.
MailOnline Royals editor Claire Cisotti remarked on Beatrice’s transformation, stating, "When she walked out it was like the lights switched on with everybody. She looked incredible... we have seen her gradually go up the fashion stakes every time she comes out in an outfit." Such encouragement points towards the potential impacts of effective styling and the importance of having the right fashion advisors.
This mutual influence among the royals is a reminder that the image they project is carefully curated. Though every royal has access to an in-house seamstress for adjustments, Catherine often collaborates with external designers, crafting custom outfits tailored specifically for her engagements, highlighting a unique approach to royal fashion. Each appearance, outfit, and accessory serves a purpose, from fostering relationships with brands to subtly championing sustainable practices within the fashion industry.
Tips and fashion insights gleaned from Catherine’s wardrobe choices are not just limited to her individual style. As more people follow her lead, there's a ripple effect felt throughout the fashion world, influencing trends and purchasing decisions across various consumer demographics. In esta era of conscious fashion, Catherine’s choice to reuse, mix trends, and embrace both local and larger brands showcases her as an exemplary figure in internalizing contemporary fashion values.
The buzz around the royal family’s fashion continues to evolve as they navigate contemporary issues while maintaining traditional ties. For Catherine, each public appearance is an opportunity not just to display stylish choices but also to position herself as a leader in responsible fashion advocacy. Whether she’s dazzling in a formal ensemble or looking effortlessly chic in casual wear, she remains a captivating figure, proving that royal dressing can seamlessly blend with modern fashion narrative.
