While members of the royal family now always pack a smart black outfit whenever they travel, such an important protocol wasn’t always the case. Indeed, it is a measure that was only introduced when Queen Elizabeth found herself without the correct ensemble when news of her father King George VI’s unexpected death reached her during a visit to Kenya in 1952.
HELLO!‘s new special issue, Queen Elizabeth II: A Centenary Tribute, describes how the late monarch had travelled to Africa in place of her 56-year-old father, who had been in poor health for some time. King George VI was battling cancer and four months earlier had undergone an operation to remove part of his lung.
Still, it was a shock to the then-Princess, aged 25, to find out that she had said goodbye to him for the final time. She was staying at the rural Treetops Hotel near the town of Nyeri with her husband Prince Philip when her father died in his sleep in Sandringham.
However, news of the King’s death only reached the couple – who were parents to Prince Charles, three, and two-year-old Princess Anne – when they had moved to Sayana Lodge, beside Mount Kenya. The Prince, then 30, was told of the King’s death, and he passed the heartbreaking message on to his wife.
The Princess immediately prepared to return to the UK early, however, she realised that she had only packed light summer dresses for the trip and no black mourning outfit to wear. Indeed, it is customary for members of the royal family to wear only the dark shade from news of death until shortly after the funeral takes place – as was seen in the days after the Queen’s death at Balmoral almost four years ago.
The then-Princess Elizabeth only had light summer dresses with her in Kenya when she received news of her father’s death in 1952
Quick change
As such, when the young Queen’s plane landed back in London almost exactly 70 years before her own passing, a suitable ensemble was brought to her so that she could change on board before she disembarked. It is a misjudgement that forever reshaped royal protocol, and now all members of the family are certain to pack an appropriate outfit in their luggage just in case.
The new monarch waited to change into a black outfit before disembarking the plane at Heathrow
The Queen, who would officially accede to the throne at her Coronation in 1953, descended the aircraft steps at Heathrow Airport to be greeted by then-Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. She was dressed in a black coat with a matching black hat.
In 1992, the sartorial rule was honoured again when Princess Diana‘s father, Lord Spencer, died while she was away in the Alps skiing with then-husband Prince Charles. On their way back, the royal couple dressed in all-black attire.
HELLO!’s new keepsake special issue, celebrating the late Queen’s centenary, is on sale now
The new keepsake issue, Queen Elizabeth II: A Centenary Tribute, is available to buy now, online or on newsstands. The collector’s edition celebrates the late monarch’s remarkable reign with exclusive features and stunning imagery on what would have been her 100th birthday.
Queen Letizia of Spain‘s sense of style is defined by her love of a left-field silhouette, and her ability to make business attire look incredibly cool, as well as appropriately serious.
As she attended the official opening of the 46th International Tourism Trade Fair at Ifema on 22 January in Madrid, she proved once again that she can look stylish and professional at the same time, without compromising on either.
Queen Letizia of Spain and King Felipe VI of Spain at the official opening of the 46th International Tourism Trade Fair at Ifema on January 22, 2026 in Madrid
The 53-year-old opted for an all-black look, including a button-up shirt, a pair of pleated trousers with a wide-leg silhouette that looked like a slightly more formal take on balloon pants, rounding it all off with a simple belt to break the outfit in two.
Her husband, King Felipe, looked incredibly dapper in a similarly formal ensemble, opting for a grey pinstripe suit over a crisp white shirt and black tie. For an official outing like this, it makes sense for the Spanish royals to avoid donning anything too adventurous, but it’s no surprise to see Queen Letizia putting her own spin on business casual.
Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: Queen Letizia of Spain’s Style Evolution
An expert’s take on Queen Letizia’s look
Queen Letizia certainly has her signature style, her blend of high-street and high-fashion, as well as her love for a slightly stranger silhouette, but this look is actually bang on-trend in the context of wider celebrity style.
We spoke to Orion Scott, HELLO! Fashion‘s Style Editor, who broke down the Spanish Queen’s outfit, and how it fits into the trend cycle. She explained: “Pleated suiting trousers are a hero piece for many fashion obsessives. Not only are they utterly comfortable, but they’re also easy to style up and down for all occasions.
“Letizia’s high-waisted options featured intricate pleat detailing around the waist, before falling into a wide leg silhouette – the perfect pairing to accentuate the waist, she continued. “In today’s world, notable names and stylish It-girls, including Hailey Bieber and Elsa Hosk, are leaning further away from slim-fitting trouser options, with oversized alternatives reigning supreme.”
Sharing her top tip for incorporating them into your own look, our fashion expert suggested that pleated trousers are “perfect for pairing with a kitten heel for an after-dark soirée, with loafers or ballet flats, for a more laid back look, or, with a heeled boot to add a few extra inches of height like Queen Letizia.”
Zara Tindall is widely regarded as a royal style icon. Alongside her outfits that regularly land her on the best-dressed lists, the daughter of Princess Anne has also enjoyed a foray into the modelling industry. She is frequently chosen to be the face of a plethora of high-end fashion brands thanks to her timeless style and flair for fashion.
Jewellery brand Calleija has just announced its collaboration with the royal, posting an exquisite photo shoot of Zara wearing an array of pieces from the eponymous ‘Zara Tindall Collection’. Posting on Instagram, the brand penned in the caption: “Zara Tindall Collection by Calleija. Where timeless design meets modern sophistication.”
In the video, Zara can be seen artfully posing and looking as gorgeous as ever, wearing a crisp white shirt, with just her gold jewellery on show. Boasting expertly applied natural makeup and a joyous demeanour, Zara looks so beautiful in the frames.
Zara’s ‘timeless’ look was reminiscent of the late Princess Diana’s iconic style
The look was reminiscent of one that the late Princess Diana often stepped out in. Her signature style in the 90s often consisted of a classic white shirt, which she paired with gold jewellery (notably statement earrings, just like Zara’s) and stonewash jeans.
Princess Diana often wore a crisp white shirt
Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: Discover Diana’s fashion legacy
This particular look was so prolific that she even wore it when she appeared in Vogue in 1994, shot by Patrick Demarchelier. One picture in the publication’s spread saw the former wife of King Charles expertly posing in black trousers and a simple white shirt, with her legs crossed.
Why is a white shirt so stylish?
The white shirt is widely considered a wardrobe staple as it offers an instant, polished and grown-up demeanour, not to mention the fact that a flash of white around the neck can give the illusion of a brighter complexion. A white shirt also offers versatility; it can be worn with a myriad of separates.
This shoot may have been put together by Zara’s stylist, Annie Miall. The Australian-born professional is widely considered to have totally transformed Zara’s wardrobe since she started curating her look in 2020. The royal’s fashion stance has evolved from classic-led to far more daring and colour-coded over the years, and she now wears a variety of stunning getups, dreamed up by Annie.
Zara is regularly dressed in the finest labels, selected by the talented professional, from UK-based labels Laura Green, Fairfax & Favor and ME+EM, to firm royal favourites such as Emilia Wickstead and Zimmermann. Annie documents many of Zara’s outfit details on her own Instagram feed, which she made public five years ago and has been mesmerising royal fashion fans ever since with her ensembles.
The Princess of Wales took to Instagram on 9 January 2026 to signal her birthday with a moving post. The brunette royal, who turned 44 on Friday, confessed that she was “deeply grateful” as she appeared in the final film of her Mother Nature series, which coincided with her big day.
Kate chose to wear a myriad of vintage pieces that she has had in her wardrobe for many years – her ‘Elfie’ jacket by Barbour, which was part of the Alexa Chung collaboration from 2019, and her Penelope Chilvers tasselled boots in ‘Conker’, which she first wore when she was at St Andrews University in 2001.
Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: The Princess of Wales releases personal message on her 44th birthday
The hat is regarded as an ‘It’ girl accessory that dominated cool-girl fashion agendas in the 2010s.
The retro silhouette is a core piece of English countryside fashion heritage, becoming popular in the 1800s and early 1900s. It was later adopted by the upper class for outdoor events like hunting or shooting. Kate was first spotted with a Baker Boy hat in 2013 and has often chosen the style when she has fronted events that take place outdoors.
Kate choosing to rewear her clothes is a sustainability goal
Seeing Kate rewear items from her wardrobe that she has treasured for many years has a positive effect on fashion in a big way. “It sends a quietly powerful message: that style doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet,” fashion journalist and sustainable advocate Georgia Brown tells HELLO!. “With every outfit scrutinised, wearing something that has stood the test of time reframes sustainability as something aspirational, not restrictive.”
Jen Graham, a charity shopper who has presented second-hand fashion segments on This Morning, agrees. “When even the royals rewear, relove, and reshare, it sends the strongest message that sustainability is the future of fashion.”
Kate’s birthday message is different from past years
Traditionally, Kensington Palace releases portraits of the Princess on her birthday, but this year, they broke with tradition to share the moving film. “Even in the coldest, darkest season, winter has a way of bringing us stillness, patience, and quiet consideration,” Kate says in a voiceover. “Where the stream slows just enough for us to see our own reflection. To discover the deepest parts of ourselves.”
The 10-year-old princess was seen exiting St Mary Magdalene church on the royal Norfolk estate, wearing a new bespoke Catherine Walker coat dress in an oatmeal hue. The outerwear, which was made by her mother’s go-to British coat designer, featured a chocolate brown velvet collar to match the pockets, buttons, and cuffs in the same hue.
Princess Charlotte wore a Catherine Walker coat dress
Charlotte, who was seen walking with her father, Prince William, also wore the ‘Cap-Toe Ballet in Dark Cocoa’ by Tory Burch, as identified by Royal British Fashion on Instagram, and a pair of chocolate brown tights to match. Rounding off the look was an oversized bow in the princess’ hair.
Kate Middleton wore a similar look after officially launching the new RNLI’s lifeboat ‘Hereford Endeavour’ at Trearddur Bay, Anglesey
The look may feel familiar to long-time fans of the British royal family, as it felt reminiscent of one worn by her mother, the Princess of Wales, over 14 years ago. On 24 February 2011, Kate Middleton (as she was known until her royal wedding on 29 April 2011) was seen in Trearddur Bay in Anglesey, where she and William attended the dedication of a new RNLI lifeboat during Kate’s first official engagement in Wales.
Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: Princess Charlotte’s response to dad William as he calls her away from the crowds on Christmas Day 2025
For this outing, Kate wore a neutral wool coat dress by Katherine Hooker with a dark brown collar, cuffs, and pockets just like Charlotte’s. The soon-to-be royal bride also wore brown tights and slipped a deep red dress under her coat – just like Charlotte did on Christmas Day this year.
Kate and Charlotte’s lookalike moment
Though one was in February and one was in December, both Kate and Charlotte’s winter outfits prove the timeless appeal of a winter coat and brown tights. Brown is a hugely popular colour this season as it is a softer alternative to black that still looks put together.
Spot how Princess Charlotte wore a red dress like her mum did 14 years ago
Meanwhile, the wool used in both coats will always be a hit in the winter months as the fabric’s crimped fibres trap air, which keeps body heat in, a top priority for an outside engagement.
Oriona Robb, a luxury stylist with more than 20 years in the fashion industry, exclusively shared her tips with us for replicating the look if you are a mother with a young daughter.
The Princess of Wales wore a black hair bow to the Christmas lunch
“Choose bows that feel slightly oversized and tactile rather than tiny or rigid, as they photograph beautifully.
Keep hair styling relaxed; a simple half-up look with gentle waves feels polished without looking theatrical.
Remember, the goal is to make the bow a sweet finishing detail, not a costume, allowing children to move comfortably while still looking charmingly coordinated.”
Princess Anne proved once again that timeless style never dates as she stepped out for the annual Christmas Day walkabout at Sandringham wearing a familiar statement piece from her wardrobe.
The Princess Royal rewore a vintage red coat first seen back in May 1997, and again on Christmas Day 2000, delighting royal watchers with the striking throwback moment.
Princess Anne wore the vintage piece to attend the Christmas Day walkabout
As the Royal Family greeted well-wishers following the traditional Christmas Day church service, Anne stood out in her bold coat, which matched with the King’s wife, Queen Camilla. She was also joined by her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, her daughter Zara Tindall, and several other senior members of the royal family.
The vibrant red hue, structured tailoring and classic silhouette gave Anne’s look an unmistakably regal feel, while also serving as a reminder of the Princess’s long-held sustainable approach to fashion.
The coat, which Anne first wore almost three decades ago, was paired with navy boots and a brown fur hat – accessories that felt both festive and practical, and perfectly suited to the chilly Norfolk weather.
Princess Anne has long been admired for her sustainable approach to dressing, frequently re-wearing outfits from across the decades. Unlike trend-driven royal style moments, her wardrobe choices prioritise longevity and craftsmanship, often bringing archival pieces back into rotation.
The King’s sister was matching with Queen Camilla, who was also in red
Royal fans were quick to praise the look, with many noting how effortlessly the coat still works today. In an era when vintage fashion and re-wearing have become increasingly celebrated, Anne’s appearance felt especially relevant.
Sophie has been pictured wearing the belted wool camel coat on multiple occasions, and for Christmas Day this year Louise styled it with her mum’s Jane Taylor Millinery fascinator, a striped scarf, Laurence Coste earrings, a black tote bag by Studio Perera, and a pair of LK Bennet shoes she’s also worn previously.
Lady Louise Windsor attended the Christmas Morning Service at St Mary Magdalene Church
Princess Anne most memorably wore her striking red coat back in 1997, before making a festive appearance on Christmas Day 2000 where it quickly became one of her most recognisable holiday looks. But she’s stepped out in the exact same piece as recently as March 2025.
She’s also frequently worn very similar styles, including a longline red coat to attend a conference for the British Nutrition Foundation in London in November.
Queen Mary stole the show on 1 November, as she joined fellow royals at the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. In attendance alongside Queen Rania of Jordan, Prince Albert of Monaco, and King Felipe of Spain, the Australian-born Danish royal, 53, looked dazzling at the event, which was hosted by the Egyptian President and which brought together over 80 kings, princes, heads of state and government, and international leaders. For the occasion, she put a royal spin on the viral naked dress trend dominating the fashion world with a cut-out pencil skirt by Zimmermann.
The ‘Natura’ skirt featured a cinched waist and straight cut, which skimmed Mary’s ankles. She paired it with the matching ‘Natura’ top, which also came in a pale mint hue and featured capped sleeves and a high neck. Spicing up her co-ord, King Frederik‘s wife accessorised to the max. She debuted the showstopping ‘Love 100’ mesh pumps by Jimmy Choo, which featured silver sparkles on the toe and heel.
Queen Mary’s shoes featured glitter on the toes and heels
The killer silver heels paired perfectly with her diamond drop earrings by Bruun Rasmussen Auctioneers. Her look was rounded off by the ‘Petunia Crocodile-Embossed Leather Clutch in Light Blue’ by LIN8. For her beauty look, the queen chose a classic blow-dry and a radiant makeup look featuring a pink lip. On the Lifestyle desk here at HELLO!, we’re always keeping up-to-date with Queen Mary’s latest looks. Keep scrolling to see what she’s been wearing this season…
King Frederik looked on as his wife Queen Mary held a gun during their visit at Adazi Gymnasium in Adazi
On 29 October, Queen Mary was spotted during a visit to Adazi Gymnasium in Adazi during her and King Frederik’s state visit to Latvia, focused on international military cooperation. She wore Max Mara’s ‘Bellico’ skirt with a knitted berry-toned top, Gianvito Rossi riding boots, and a heavy Max Mara belt.
Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: Queen Mary of Denmark: Everything to know
Queen Mary and King Frederik attended a state banquet on their first day in Latvia
Later that day, Queen Mary joined her husband at the State dinner hosted by Latvia’s President Edgars Rinkevics at Riga Castle. She looked spellbinding in a crimson ballgown by Soeren Le Schmidt paired with the Edwardian Tiara and Earrings, which she is said to have purchased at auction in 2012.
King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark arrive at the health center during a walk through Randers
On 27 October, King Frederik X of Denmark and Queen Mary of Denmark were seen on a walkabout in Randers, Denmark. The star of the show was her ‘Guelfo Prince of Wales Wool and Cotton Blazer’ by Max Mara, styled with black trousers and heeled boots.
On 7 October, the royal arrived at Christiansborg Palace to attend the opening session of the Danish Parliament in Copenhagen. She chose a wrap jacket by Theodore Scanlan teamed with a textured A-line skirt by Lunatica Milano, as well as a Jane Taylor skull cap and the coordinating ‘Gianvito 105 Royale Burgundy Suede Pumps’ by Gianvito Rossi.
With the exception of a striped Ralph Lauren shirt, the capsule wardrobe features light colors, shades of brown, and black or dark blue garments—mostly solid colors rather than any patterns or patterns that could convey chaos rather than a feeling of harmony. “Quiet” is the adjective associated with this style, though the items’ hefty price tags are anything but.
It remains to be seen whether Meghan is, in fact, planning a personal rebrand and comeback, and what role fashion might play in that. Could a collaboration with a fashion house be in sight, or are clothes simply a canvas on which Meghan writes her values or, more simply, her personal tastes?
Meghan reportedly gave Balenciaga creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli a call and got invited to the Paris show, a move the creative director said was done without “any strategy or grand orchestration.” Curiosity about a fashion move from Meghan was further fueled by a meeting in New York.
Meghan was spotted conversing amiably with Chloe Malle, the new head of editorial content at Vogue. Is something brewing, or did the two just see each other for a chat since they were in the same city? There are no definite answers but Malle is in a position to put an offer of some kind on the table, whether a collaboration, a cover, or, who knows, maybe a column.
Let us now look in detail at the outfits Meghan has recently sported in New York and Washington. Among the speculation about her future, we finally have one certainty: Meghan’s outfits will not be for sale on ShopMy, the platform on which her selection of garments could be purchased. That initiative, which launched so much discussion last spring, seems to have waned. The duchess has closed up shop—pardon me—boutique.
The Giorgio Armani suit
To accept the “Humanitarians of the Year” award at the gala held in New York for the Project Healthy Minds festival, Meghan chose a suit, as if to nod to the series that made her famous and was set in the Big Apple. The suit in question, consisting of a fitted jacket and a pair of soft pants, was already in the duchess’s wardrobe. It’s designed by Giorgio Armani, one of Meghan’s go-tos.
To make the outfit suitable for an evening event, Meghan chose to wear the jacket with nothing underneath, making her chain necklace by Anine Bing stand out. It’s a bold styling choice that casts her in the world of celebrities rather than the somewhat more collared world of Buckingham Palace. Her earrings are by Guzema, a Ukrainian brand that may have come to her through her husband Prince Harry, who recently visited Kyiv. It could be a way to emphasize the support the couple wants to show the warring country.
The Princess of Wales is what one may refer to as a ‘respectable’ dresser. You won’t see the royal rocking risque items; she is very loyal to her working role and wears classic clothes that are stylish but not distracting. We’ve seen Kate sport dress coats, midi frocks, tailored blazers, high heels, and tailored trousers, all pristine and without much skin showing. When it comes to necklines, they tend to be timeless and never reveal too much; she opts for button-up blouses and favours the crew cut when it comes to her T-shirts and tops. That being said, we have seen her wear some necklines that are pretty daring over the years. Albeit not often, but they’re there! They tend to be on what one may call a ‘night off’, so during a premiere or party, not during a royal day visit.
Fashion rules and royal etiquette
It is thought that hemlines and necklines need to be monitored when it comes to dressing as a royal. With that in mind, we’ve seen Kate’s fashion transition over the years, from daring university student to a classic royal bride in 2011. Who can forget when Kate wore that black, knee-length sheer dress at university in 2001? Danielle Stacy, Hello!’s Online Royal Correspondent said of the style: “When the now Princess of Wales selected the sheer dress to wear at a charity show, I doubt she realised at the time how significant the garment would be in her love story with Prince William. Initially designed as a skirt, Kate styled it out as a dress and when she sashayed down the catwalk, it’s been widely reported that that was the moment where she really captured the Prince’s attention.”
Kate’s iconic dress caught the attention of a young Prince William in 2001
Meghan Markle’s thought on Harry’s family reunion
Kate’s daring necklines
As a fashion editor covering royal style for 15 years, I think she looks fabulous, and it shows that this type of look can be pulled off in an elegant, classy way, à la Prince William’s wife. Scroll on for inspiration…
Kate and her little sister, Pippa Middleton, were pictured at the Ham Polo Club in 2006. The brunette royal was present to watch Prince William compete in the Chakravarty Cup charity polo match, and she rocked a dazzling post box red halterneck frock that featured a plunging neckline. We love the polka dot detail, midi length, and ruching at the waist.
Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: Princess Kate’s best outfits over the past ten years
When Kate and William got engaged in 2010, the world was introduced to the son of King Charles’s future bride and fell in love with her almost instantly. Kate chose to wear an incredible dress at the photocall, and it was universally considered iconic. Designed by UK brand Issa London, Kate’s striking navy wrap dress was the talk of St James’s Palace. The elegant silk style was designed in royal blue and featured a gentle V-neckline, which was a look that was very of the moment.
Kate loved the style so much that she actually wore it again a year later. During the Royal Tour of Canada in 2011, after she and William were married, the brunette royal opted for the same style by Issa, in another regal colour – deep purple. The mother-of-three accessorised the style with a simple clutch bag, high-heeled shoes, and a Maple leaf brooch, borrowed from the late Queen Elizabeth II.
When the leaves turn and the air sharpens, few people step sartorially into autumn quite like Princess Kate, and over on the The HELLO! Royal Club, The Royal Shopper, Leanne Bayley, has revealed nine of Kate’s best autumnal style tricks and how you can copy them affordably. Click on the button below to get Leanne’s expert advice now.
Kate’s most famous V-neckline of all has to be the style she sported in 2021. The Princess wore this showstopping, gold glittering gown at the James Bond: No Time to Die film premiere that year, and the look went viral. The Jenny Peckham dress featured shoulder pads and a flattering V-neck, with long, draped sleeves and a dazzling sequin finish.
The royal wore this ice blue gown during the Platinum Jubilee tour
The Princess attended a reception in the Bahamas during the Platinum Jubilee tour in March 2022, and immediately turned heads wearing a crystal blue Phillipa Lepley gown. The royal looked simply stunning in the regal-looking satin gown. The ice blue shade looked amazing against her skin tone, and the V-neckline showed much more skin than normal.
Auctioneers Lyon & Turnbull will offer the tiara as part of a collection of lots from the estate of Virginia Ogilvy, Countess of Airlie, who died last year. This particular piece is expected to sell for between $66.6K and $93.2K, as it boasts not just an incredible design, but a fascinating history that links back to the British royal family.
The tiara’s first recorded wearer was Lady Mabell Gore, who became the Countess of Airlie in 1886 when she married David Ogilvy, the 11th Earl. Lyon & Turnbull have speculated that the piece may have been a wedding present, given that daisies represent innocence and purity, while ivy has long been associated with love. Sadly, the Countess was widowed when her husband died in the Second Boer War in 1900, but one year later she was appointed as one of the Ladies of the Bedchamber to the Princess of Wales—later Queen Mary—and continued to serve in the role until the Queen’s death in 1953.
Another new bride had recently joined the Ogilvy family at that time, and would also go on to need a tiara: Virginia Fortune Ryan, the daughter of a wealthy American banking family, who was connected to the British upper classes by her father, a close friend of both Sir Winston Churchill and Anthony Eden, 1st Earl of Avon. Her connections enabled her to marry Mabell’s grandson, Lord David Ogilvy, the heir to the earldom, in 1952—and their wedding was quite the society affair. Guests included Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Princess Margaret, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. The groom’s best man, meanwhile, was his younger brother, The Hon. Angus Ogilvy, who would go on to marry Princess Alexandra of Kent.
Zara Tindall is the queen of Cotswold heritage chic, with her equestrian wardrobe; the wife of former international rugby player Mike Tindall is the poster girl for tweed, tartan, and all super-smart outdoor attire. The mother-of-three only proved this further on Friday afternoon, as she was pictured at the Cornbury House Horse Trials at Cornbury Park, alongside her royal relative, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh. Zara, 43, was pictured rocking this season’s must-have coat – the barn jacket, which came from one of the brands she is affiliated with, Fairfax and Favor. Zara Tindall looked in full countryside mode, in the wax jacket, which was of the mocha brown variety. Keeping in with autumnal tones, she added a coffee-coloured knit, blue jeans, and pistachio-coloured wellington boots. Stunning!
The durable barn jacket may seem like it’s a new item, but the classic style has actually been around for years. It’s often made from wax and has large pockets and a slightly oversized, boxy cut. Originally designed for outdoor workers, it has now become pretty mainstream, appearing on the Prada runway and worn by a host of celebrities at Glastonbury.
Zara’s mother, Princess Anne, actually wore the style before her blonde daughter, noticeably back in 2001.
Zara is known for her elite dress sense at racing events, and she even spilled the beans on how to dress for Ascot and Cheltenham moments. “Choose a classic, tailored outfit, but make sure to incorporate layers and weather-appropriate accessories,” the royal revealed. ” For me, it’s about what works and feels good to wear. For events where I have to get more dressed up, I work with an amazing stylist who’s brilliant at finding pieces that reflect the type of event it is.”
There are few women in the world who can influence a wardrobe quite like the Princess of Wales. She just has a knack for turning polished classics into must-have staples. Her recent secret weapon? The tweed blazer – more specifically, the herringbone jacket. Season after season, Catherine proves that this heritage piece is not just for the hunting fields of the English countryside, but for school runs, charity visits, and even the red carpet-adjacent engagements that make up royal life.
So why does the Duchess return time and again to this quintessentially British tweed jacket? And more importantly, why should you consider adding one to your own collection?
The 43-year-old royal has been photographed in an array of blazers, but her tweed and herringbone choices always stand out. Think of her in Smythe’s iconic one-button jacket, in earthy tweeds by Alexander McQueen, or her beloved Holland Cooper double-breasted blazer in a sharply tailored herringbone. Each look is grounded in practicality yet elevated with that regal polish she nails every single time.
On a recent trip to the Natural History Museum the Princess of Wales opted for the Ralph Lauren herringbone wool blazer
Part of the appeal lies in tweed’s history. Woven in Scotland and synonymous with country estates, equestrian weekends, and windswept moors, tweed is basically as British as afternoon tea. And if you love the Traitors, you’ll be reminded of its appeal with Claudia Winkleman who looked seriously chic with her Traitors-core look throughout filming.
Claudia Winkleman is another tweed-fluencer with her Traitors looks
The enduring appeal of herringbone
Let’s pause for a quick fabric lesson, shall we? Tweed is the broader category: a rough, woollen cloth traditionally woven in patterns like check, houndstooth, and herringbone. herringbone, with its distinctive V-shaped weave, is the most refined of the bunch. It’s structured, slimming, and quietly elegant – the kind of pattern that doesn’t scream for attention but always looks considered.
Back in 2021, the Princess of Wales embarked on a boat trip in Lake Windermere wearing a herringbone blazer with black skinny jeans and boots
Why Princess Kate loves tweed jackets (and you will too)
Kate is a busy working royal, juggling engagements that take her from sports grounds to palace receptions. She needs clothes that bridge the gap between comfort and sophistication.
I reached out to royal fashion expert Samantha, the woman who’s responsible for the hugely popular Instagram account @royalfashiondaily. If anyone can add some expert knowledge on to this subject, it’s Sam! She said: “Kate loves her tweed herringbone jackets and blazers because they feel timeless and grounded. They gives her that easy, girl-next-door vibe while still nodding to classic British countryside style – a look that makes royalty feel warm, approachable, and relatable.”
Aged 22, the beaming Princess rocked a tweed co-ord and knee-high boots
Where to shop the look
If you’re looking to invest, heritage brands like Holland Cooper, Smythe, and Burberry offer exquisite tailoring with timeless appeal. For more accessible options, high-street retailers like Zara, Mango, and Jigsaw frequently carry excellent herringbone-inspired blazers. The beauty of this piece is that it doesn’t have to cost the earth to look regal.
While Kate’s Ralph Lauren blazer she wore recently was a past season buy, this is the new season version and there are matching pieces available. So chic.
I rarely use full length photos to illustrate jackets, but this model is wearing this blazer exactly the same way as I’d style it. It’s very cool girl coded. Want!
I think this blazer looks extremely expensive, and I was shocked to see the price didn’t reflect that. This is a regular fit, which is ideal if you’re not into the oversized look.
Nobody’s Child is going from strength to strength, and this blazer looks like a timeless addition to your wardrobe.
Styling advice: How to wear your herringbone jacket like a royal
Throw on a herringbone blazer and suddenly jeans and a T-shirt look intentional. Pair it with a silk blouse and pencil skirt and you’re boardroom ready. Over a knit dress, it adds structure without sacrificing softness. It’s the ultimate wardrobe transformer.
This & Other Stories blazer came straight home with me
Keep it Neutral, Keep it Chic
Catherine tends to favour earthy palettes – greys, browns, navy – because they go with everything. Invest in a neutral herringbone blazer first, then branch out into statement colours if you fall in love.
Pair with Slim Silhouettes
Tweed is a heavier fabric, so balance is key. Kate often teams her blazers with slim trousers, skinny jeans, or a streamlined midi skirt. This avoids looking bulky and highlights the tailoring.
Add a Touch of Femininity
To soften the traditionally masculine cut of a blazer, Kate often pairs hers with a silk blouse, delicate jewellery, or even a floral dress. It’s this interplay of structure and softness that makes her looks feel so wearable.
Belt It
Now this is one of the royal’s signature styling tricks. Cinching the waist not only flatters the figure but adds a modern twist to a heritage fabric. If your blazer is longline, try a leather belt over the top – it’s a subtle but effective way to elevate your look.
Boots are your best friend
Whether she’s wearing suede knee-highs or chic ankle boots, Kate knows footwear matters. Tweed naturally complements leather, so your herringbone blazer will always feel at home with classic boots.
Don’t be afraid of denim
One of the reasons tweed has shaken off its “country only” reputation is its pairing with denim. A herringbone blazer worn over a white tee and skinny jeans is no doubt Princess Kate’s off-duty uniform – and it works just as well for a Saturday coffee run as it does for the school gates.
Alexa Chung often teams her tweed blazers with denim jeans
Investment piece or trend?
While fashion is often fleeting, the herringbone jacket is a piece you’ll wear for decades. Buy well, and it will outlast trends, moving with you from one life stage to another. Princess Kate’s wardrobe choices highlight this point beautifully: her tweed blazers from a decade ago still look as fresh today as when she first wore them.
Think of it as part of the “royal effect.” Royals don’t dress for a single season – they dress with the future in mind. That’s exactly why Catherine’s tweed jackets have aged so gracefully, and why yours will too.
Princess Kate has wowed us with her red carpet style countless times over the years, but perhaps never more so than at the 2019 BAFTAs, when she stepped out in a billowing one-shoulder dress by Alexander McQueen. The fashion-forward number featured a fabulous floral applique on one shoulder and was so beloved by the future Queen that she wore it again to the 2023 BAFTAs, removing the floral detailing, which she replaced with a flowing tulle cape.
However, it transpires Princess Kate wasn’t the first to wear the style, with actress Anne Hathaway taking to the Venice Film Festival in 2007, wearing a strikingly similar gown. The Devil Wears Prada icon wore a near-identical dress to walk the red carpet with her co-stars Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci.
Though the dresses are extremely similar, Anne’s gown is in fact by Valentino, but features the familiar column shape, one-shoulder detailing, and waist detailing, making it a dead ringer for the Princess of Wales’ dress.
Anne’s dress was strikingly similar to the one worn by Princess Kate
Styling the dress
Both Princess Kate and Anne Hathaway opted to sweep their hair up and back to complement the dramatic shoulder detailing of the dress, with their long brunette hair looking perfectly coiffured in this style. That said, the second time the Princess of Wales wore the gown, she opted to wear her hair long and loose.
Accessories-wise, the two women also both added glittering drop earrings to their look, though for the 2023 event, Princess Kate opted for statement gold earrings, adding an of-the-moment on on-trend vibe to the timeless dress.
They even both wore strikingly similar cuff bracelets with the dress, juxtaposing the light, airy gown with a chunky accessory for an added edge. In addition, Anne and Princess Kate both held metallic clutch bags, so we assume it’s fair to say that the Princess of Wales was inspiratied by Anne’s style.
Anne Hathaway wore a dress just like Princess Kate’s in 2006
Princess Kate’s best look
The Princess of Wales’ white gown is widely regarded as one of her best ever looks, with iconic British fashion designer Amanda Wakeley OBE telling HELLO! of the gown: “The beautiful white chiffon was just so classic and elegant – it was regal yet fresh and commanded attention without showing off.”
Kate Middleton is one of the world’s most watched, commented on, and admired personalities, not least for her impeccable sense of style. She has become one of the world’s most elegant style icons, a champion for British designers and an advocate of responsible consumption. Her looks, through their provenance or hues, often convey powerful messages that require meticulous behind-the-scenes work to prepare.
Until recently, this task has fallen to Natasha Archer. For 15 years, the Briton traveled the world at Kate’s side, planning her outfits, some of which have become iconic. A witness to major family events and royal tragedies, she ultimately became her confidante. But in mid-July, she announced that she was stepping down from her position to concentrate on launching her own fashion design firm. The big question remains: who will succeed her?
The British media are largely convinced that the future queen’s stylist will be Virginia Chadwyck-Healey, nicknamed Ginnie by friends. A former market editor at U.K. Vogue, she’s no stranger to grappling with both fashion and public relations. Today, while continuing to write about style for the Telegraph and Sky News, she also advises private clients through her styling firm, VCH Style. She encourages her clients to “embrace the need for less” and “shop better,” according to her website, a philosophy that fits in perfectly with Kate’s personal fashion ethics.
Virginia Chadwyck-Healey
Dave Benett/Getty Images
The daughter of a Lord, Chadwyck-Healey has moved in the same circles as the princess for many years. Like Kate, she studied art history at St Andrews University. Also like Kate, she met her future husband Oliver there—the couple were invited to the royal wedding of Kate and Prince William in April 2011. And like Kate, she now lives with her three children in Berkshire, west of London.
Beyond her CV and her proximity to Wales, Chadwyck-Healey has a third major asset: she has already been Kate’s stylist. In 2019, while Natasha Archer was on maternity leave, royal fans spotted a subtle change in style in Prince William’s wife. The journalist was the reason. “Ginnie is Catherine’s secret weapon,” a royal source told the Daily Mail. “She has made a big difference to the Duchess’s wardrobe for public engagements and has helped give her a whole new sense of confidence.” Catherine was said to be “impressed” and “very grateful” for Chadwyck-Healey’s help.
Fans of royal fashion are even more convinced of Chadwyck-Healey’s frontrunner status since Carole Middleton’s appearance at Wimbledon. She wore a loose-fitting striped dress, the result of a collaboration between Chadwyck-Healey and the Beulah London label, which Kate is particularly fond of. And we all know that the most discreet clues about royal fashion often speak the loudest.
Carole Middleton
Karwai Tang
For the moment, nothing has been confirmed. The Telegraph also highlighted the possibility of another contender, Jamie Earlam, who, according to her LinkedIn page, is currently the personal clothing assistant to the Wales family. Will Kate Middleton buy Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey’s expertise, or will she surprise us by choosing an unexpected candidate? The answer can’t be far away.
Queen Mary looked resplendent on Monday night as she stepped out alongside King Frederik for a dinner for the heads of state of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden to mark the 25th anniversary of the Nordic Embassies in Berlin.
The Australian-born Danish royal, 52, looked breathtaking in red but it was her jewels that were the most poignant element of her outfit.
The mother of four was seen wearing her hair in a chic bun, revealing the beautiful ‘Snowdrop’ earrings from Dulong – a sentimental pair as Mary wore them on her wedding day in 2004.
You may also likeWATCH: Queen Mary’s Greatest Looks
Mary first wore the Dulong earrings on her wedding day
The eye-catching earrings feature dangling South Sea pearls surrounded by brilliant-cut diamonds. The Queen also wore a special bracelet – a piece encrusted with pearls and diamonds featuring a portrait of the late Queen Josefina of Sweden-Norway.
On Tuesday, the royal stepped out for another day in Germany. Mary was spotted greeting wellwishers in front of the Schleswig-Holstein state government in Kiel wearing a gorgeous pair of burnt orange trousers teamed with a floral blouse and burgundy blazer.
Queen Mary wowed in a powder blue coat and an Emilia Wickstead skirt as she arrived in Germany on Monday
The royal also looked pristine on Monday when she stepped out before the gala dinner for a photo with her husband on the rooftop terrace while visiting the Reichstag.
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The world was delighted to see the simply stunning Princess of Wales on Thursday in Southport. The royal stepped out alongside her husband, Prince William, where she met first responders, the families of survivors, and survivors of the horrific knife attack in the city on July 29 at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.
WATCH: Princess Kate confirms she’s completed chemotherapy in moving family video
Kate, 42, wore a stunning chocolate brown coat by her wedding dress designer, Alexander McQueen, high heel shoes by Gianvito Rossi and the most fabulous polka dot dress by high street favourite Whistles, which she previously wore back in 2018.
The Prince and Princess of Wales arrived for a visit to Southport Community Centre
The pretty dress was designed in the colour of the season, burgundy, and cost £149 at the time of purchase, almost six years ago.
On close inspection, we realised that the royal made the dress look almost brand new with one clever hack. You will notice the dress appears to have a neck tie attached. Well, this is actually the detachable belt which comes with the dress! So smart; and a great way to reinvent the style for a new occasion.
The appearance at Southport was Kate’s first official working visit since completing chemotherapy. The community was shaken by the harrowing knife attack in July, where three children lost their lives, and ten others were seriously injured. It’s understood that William and Kate wanted to visit today to show their support to the three bereaved families, the first responders and the community of Southport.
The royal couple spoke with emergency responders and asked about the mental health support which had been available, with Kate remarking: “For you to witness that, you need support yourselves.”
Referencing the earlier meeting with the families of those who died in the attack, the Princess said: “I can’t underestimate how grateful they all are for the support you provided on the day. On behalf of them, thank you.”
On Thursday evening, the gorgeous Princess Beatrice looked glowing and in great spirits as she was photographed leaving one of London’s coolest haunts, Chiltern Firehouse.
Looking relaxed and happy, the redhead royal wowed onlookers in a fabulous new outfit; which consisted of black tailored trousers, kitten heels, and the daughter of Sarah Ferguson wore a coordinating black velvet jacket which was tied with an adjustable bow at the waist.
WATCH: Princess Beatrice is expecting her second child with Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi
With her long long locks full and flowing, the 36-year-old has never looked better.
Princess Beatrice looked beautiful in black velvet at the Chiltern Firehouse 10th anniversary party
The wonderful news of the royal’s second pregnancy came on Tuesday, and was announced on the Royal Family’s official Instagram account.
Alongside a first jovial picture of the Princess and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, the caption read: “Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice and Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are very pleased to announce that they are expecting their second child together in early spring; a sibling for Wolfie, aged eight, and Sienna, aged three. His Majesty The King has been informed and both families are delighted with the news.”
Edoardo is father to Christopher and daughter Sienna, whom he shares with Beatrice
The heartwarming second snap showed the couple’s blonde daughter Sienna, as she walked along a country lane, holding hands in the middle of her father and big brother Wolfie. So cute!
Pregnancy concealing fashion hack
Beatrice loves fashion and the daughter of Prince Andrew often sports a variety of fabulous outfits and labels, from Gucci to Beulah London. Earlier this year she was even crowned as Tatler’s best dressed of 2024!
Many noticed that the royal has recently added a selection of smart jackets and coats into her working wardrobe. Perhaps this was to conceal her growing bump?
Beatrice recently went to New York, and sure enough, wore outwear staples during visits in public.
Princess Beatrice wearing a trench coat at the Youth Impact Council Launch in New York
In particular, at the Youth Impact Council Launch, she rocked an on-trend, black ‘Milane’ mini dress from one of her favourite labels, Sandro Paris, and she made sure she teamed it with a sumptuous suede tan trench coat which concealed most of her outfit. Clever!
Mia Tindall has perfected the art of dressing down with flair thanks to her mother Zara Tindall.
The 10-year-old looked effortless as she joined her dad Mike at Betfred British Masters on 28 August in a white oversized T-shirt and cream shorts. She carried her essentials in a £63 cross-body bag known as the ‘Branded Camera Bag’ in a neutral oyster hue from Country Road – a brand loved by Zara.
Mia was spotted with a trendy Country Road bag as she enjoyed a day out with her father Mike
Princess Anne’s daughter was spotted carrying big bags full of products from the affordable retailer during her trip to the luxury Pacific Fair Shopping Centre on the Gold Coast in Australia in January 2024.
You may also likeWATCH: Mike Tindall gushes about ‘compassionate’ mother Zara
Zara and Mike had been visiting for the Magic Millions, but the former Olympic equestrian found a quiet moment in her schedule to browse around clothing stores such as Country Road, Seed and Sportsgirl.
She may have picked out the crossbody bag for herself – although she hasn’t been pictured wearing it – or as a gift for her daughter during that trip.
Mia’s dark blonde hair had been styled straight and pulled back into a low ponytail, while her father looked relaxed in a blue polo shirt, white trousers and matching gloves.
The family – including Mia’s younger siblings Lena and Lucas – are often pictured showcasing their casual wardrobes at sporting events.
For example, Mia recently wore blue Adidas trainers at the Hartpury International Horse Trials in July, while her younger brother rocked a cute £35 leaf print waterproof puddlesuit by Toastie at the Magic Millions Festival of British Eventing in August.
Zara Tindall’s stylist commented on her confident fashion choices
“There really is something very special about Zara, which sets her apart – she’s a natural beauty,” she said, adding: “She’s very confident in her style.”
Analysing her fashion choices, the stylist continued: “She loves clean lines, she styles things really beautifully, she’s not a trendsetter and she’s not trying to be a fashion icon, she’s just really polished and beautifully dressed.”
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The Duchess of Sussex‘s unrivalled elegance has reigned supreme throughout her four-day tour of Colombia with Prince Harry.
From silhouette-enhancing separates to tailored workwear and a breathtaking revival of the late Princess Diana’s precious jewels, Meghan has proven her penchant for effortless style as she and her husband work through a packed agenda.
As the couple kick-started their final day in South America, Meghan’s exquisite fashion sense stood out amongst the crowd as she sported a poised and elegant look, wearing a white button down vest with a floral midi skirt.
Meghan wore a white buttoned vest with a gorgeous sequinned midi skirt
While the vest added a touch of sophistication when she joined a panel of dignitaries for the “Afro Woman and Power” Forum, it was her skirt that truly provided some additional bling. She wore a Silvia Tcherassi Blair sequinned midi skirt, covered in beautifully ornate and colorful floral print atop a beige fabric.
The mother-of-two, who shares Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three, with Prince Harry, paired her stunning look with gold jewelry accents, including a few bracelets and matching earrings.
The former actress swept her raven hair into a chignon with some tresses flowing down to frame her face, highlighting her natural beauty with her go-to beauty combo of a dewy base, golden bronzer and smudged eyeliner look.
She and Harry greeted attendees at the Forum at the Municipal Theater in Cali
Meghan and Harry, who were invited to Colombia by personal invitation of vice president Francia Marquez after she was moved by their Netflix documentary, have been embracing the country’s culture across their four-day stopover.
They were also invited to draw a focus on their personal priorities, such as the impact of the digital world on young people, celebrating the military community and female empowerment.
Meghan looked amazing in a halter neck two-piece on her first day in Colombia
She paired the dress with heels from Aquazzura, a beloved brand of the Duchess’, and a necklace by Logan Howell.
On Friday she visited Colegio La Giralda, a school in Santa Fe, where she looked polished in a Loro Piana linen blazer in a camel hue paired with cigarette pants and a tailored white shirt.
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WATCH: Everything You Need To Know About Carole Middleton
The mother of the Princess of Wales looked impeccably stylish as ever, donning a stunning white floral dress, which she teamed with a white blazer and low block heel pumps, as well as chic shades.
Carole Middleton looked amazing at Wimbledon wearing a Cefinn dress
The mother-of-three’s dress actually came from Cefinn – Samantha Cameron’s fashion brand. Samantha – who many affectionately refer to as Sam Cam – is married to David Cameron, who served as the UK prime minister for six years from 2010. He, of course, was the head of the Conservative Party.
Was it poignant that Carole chose to don this dress on July 4 – UK election day? Who knows!
Cefinn is a hugely popular designer brand and one that Carole has worn before, just like her daughter, so it may just be a total fashion coincidence.
Carole and Kate twinning
Carole often wears brands that her royal daughter covets. Last month during Royal Ascot, the 69-year-old looked fabulous in a dress by Self-Portrait. Kate has consistently been wearing that brand for many years, so it’s a great choice for the wife of Micheal Middleton.
Carole at Royal Ascot wearing a Self Portrait dress
As well as having a penchant for the same brands, the pair have actually worn the same dresses on a few occasions, too. One of Kate’s most well-known pink dresses was a stunning shirt dress by ME+EM she first wore back in 2021, and again at the Chelsea Flower show in 2023. The pretty style was a pleated number that featured a cinched waist and buttons all the way down the front.
Kate wearing the same pink ME+EM dress as her mother Carole
The year after the royal first wore it, Carole headed to Royal Ascot in 2022 and put her own spin on the sophisticated look as she chose the same frock but switched it up with completely different accessories – dressing it with a fancy black fascinator and matching handbag.
Twinning is winning!
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