'AS KATE'S ROYAL ROLE HAS GROWN SO HAS HER STYLE'

The Princess of Wales' growing confidence in her position as a senior royal is reflected in her evolving fashion choices

- REBECCA RUSSELL

TAILOR-MADE PRINCESS

Back in the 90s, it was all about the “Diana effect”, with the late princess’s style choices making headlines across the globe. But now the Kate era is with us – and it’s here to stay. Gone are the floaty dresses of Kate’s Duchess of Cambridge period. Instead, the Princess of Wales is providing masterclasses in the art of power dressing as she adjusts to her new role as queen-in-waiting.

Last week we saw just that when she chose a tailored green two-piece by British brand Burberry for her visit to the AW Hainsworth woollen mill in Yorkshire.

Speaking to OK! about Kate’s growing preference for a tailored silhouette, celebrity stylist and royal fashion expert Miranda Holder says, “Kate’s grace and poise could make the most casual of outfits look refined. But as her role has grown within the royal family so has her style repertoire.

“She’s wearing trouser suits as her outfit of choice, certainly for royal appointments. The overall transition has been from the pretty, floaty and playful to the more refined, regal and sophisticated – a wardrobe befitting our future queen.”

Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond agrees, and says the princess has been careful to ensure she doesn’t look out of touch with the public.

“Kate has shown exactly how you can look elegant, smart and royal without appearing different from all the people you’re meeting. It’s an outward sign that she wants to be relatable and approachable – not some grand and remote figure. It helps her empathise with people from all walks of life, and must put them more at ease. That’s a valuable asset for a senior member of the royal family.”