Why Covering Royal Fashion Matters – And Why the Palace Is Wrong

The Princess's glamour continues to highlight the causes she passionately supports. Despite the Palace's latest efforts, public interest in her wardrobe shows no signs of waning. Understandably, the Princess of Wales would prefer the media to focus less on her fashion choices and more on her work. Fourteen years into her role with "The Firm," many of the approximately 20 charities she supports have become deeply personal to her. It must be disheartening to see a bracelet attract more headlines than a major initiative from The Centre for Early Childhood Learning — an organization she was instrumental in founding. After the challenging year she has faced, it's only natural that she has gained new perspectives on her life, her responsibilities, and how she intends to approach them moving forward.

Still, Palace Palace's announcement that it will no longer share details of the Princess's clothing—except for state occasions and significant events—feels somewhat out of touch. At this stage, when she is so widely admired and beloved, why not simply embrace the fact that her style is one of the reasons even some of her more routine duties attract significant attention? The sight of our smiling Princess in a stunning Jenny Packham beaded gown, especially at a time when so many public figures seem to disappoint, offers a moment of harmless joy to millions. The truth is, Kate's enduring glamour is also a key reason why so many people have even heard of the Centre for Early Childhood in the first place.

More than 30 years ago, her mother-in-law made a similar attempt to shift public perception—from a fashion icon to a serious global figure. Following her separation from the then-Prince Charles in 1992, Diana expressed her desire "not to be known as a clothes horse but as a workhorse," as Eleri Lynn, curator of the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, explained to Vogue in a 2017 interview.

It didn't work. After her separation, Diana's style became even more internationally glamorous and refined, reaching a defining moment with the black, off-the-shoulder, slash-hemmed "revenge dress" she wore to a dinner at The Serpentine Gallery—the very night Charles publicly admitted to his affair with Camilla Parker Bowles. Despite her earlier protests, Diana understood better than anyone that clothing is a powerful tool, mainly when your voice isn't always fully heard.

The Importance of Royal Fashion Coverage

Catherine presents a stark contrast to her mother-in-law, whose relationship with publicity was often conflicted. She has never appeared to seek attention, nor did she seem particularly interested in fashion during the early years of her marriage. I once interviewed her mother, Carole, who is clearly a significant influence on both her daughters. During our conversation, Carole asked me whether I thought fashion truly mattered—a question that carried an unmistakable implication. In her view, it did not.

What Carole seemed to reject was the frivolous, wasteful side of fashion, which clashes with the more grounded Middleton family values. Yet it has always been clear that the Middletons understand the importance of personal grooming, quality clothing, and a sense of style, even when off duty. They are no Puritans.

Michael Middleton is always impeccably turned out. Carole favors a touch of Ralph Lauren on weekends and turns to Catherine Walker for more formal occasions. Pippa gravitates toward the kind of polished, upper-crust style often featured in Tatler. Meanwhile, James embodies the modern country gentleman aesthetic—tweedy, tailored, and confidently showcasing his slim calves in a look reminiscent of The Gentlemen by Guy Ritchie. For someone who spends much of his time working with dogs, James might just be the Middleton family's unexpected breakout-style star.

Yet it is Catherine—blessed with height, slenderness, and innate elegance—who stands out. Frequently named among the best-dressed women in the world, her style does not diminish her stature; rather, it enhances it. In these lean times, it even serves as a meaningful source of national pride. After all, no one accused Elizabeth I or Elizabeth II of being frivolous simply because they carefully curated the image that surrounded their roles.

Catherine has been an incalculable asset to the British fashion industry, worth £37 billion a year. And at a time when British fashion is being battered by a sluggish global economy and the looming threat of U.S. tariffs, her influence is needed more than ever. Where is Royal Family mania strongest outside the UK? In the United States. And where is retail still performing relatively well—better, at least, than in much of the rest of the world? Places like New York, Florida, Dallas, and Miami. Suppose anything can convince wealthy American fans of the Princess to swallow an extra 25 percent tariff on their next Emilia Wickstead purchase. In that case, it's the sight of Catherine herself wearing the design—full designer credit included.

The Global Appeal of Royal Fashion

Royal families have long been prominent in global media. Their actions, words, and, indeed, their fashion choices influence millions of people worldwide. From Queen Elizabeth II's iconic style to Kate Middleton's elegant and accessible looks, royal fashion offers a glimpse into their personalities, values, and roles within their countries.

The global appeal of royal fashion goes beyond just the aesthetic. It's about culture, history, and tradition intertwined with modern relevance. For instance, when Princess Diana wore a dress that broke traditional royal conventions, it became more than just a fashion moment; it was a symbol of change. Today, her fashion legacy continues to influence designers and public perception alike.

The reality is this will likely continue regardless. The Palace may have used a sledgehammer to crack this particular pistachio of a "problem," but will its new policy actually prevent brands from sharing the details themselves? For any label—especially small independents like Edeline Lee or Beulah—seeing their designs worn by the Princess is both thrilling and validating. Considering the lengths and costs many of them incur to customize pieces for her—often offering significant discounts or loans—they surely deserve the opportunity to make the most of their golden moment.

Let's also not overlook the royal style experts, such as my colleague Bethan Holt (The Telegraph's fashion director and author of The Duchess of Cambridge: A Decade of Modern Royal Style), who possess an encyclopedic knowledge of every item Catherine has worn and can spot a rewear within seconds of it hitting the internet. On that note, Catherine's—and more recently, The Prince of Wales'—appearances in pre-worn and sustainably sourced clothing, such as at the Earthshot Prize Gala, send powerful messages to those who may still be hesitant about embracing second-hand fashion.

Catherine has had a quiet but profound influence on how millions dress. More importantly, her frequent appearances—often reportedly at William's suggestion—in high-street clothing, especially in the early years of her marriage, played a crucial role in making the younger generation of royals appear more grounded and connected to the broader public. Just last week, she wore a checked outfit from Zara—so why not make the most of that by revealing it? Granted, the "Kate sleuths" will likely uncover its origin through a quick Google search, but why not be transparent from the start?

The Role of Fashion in Shaping Public Perception

The clothes a royal family member wears are often more than just a personal preference; they are part of their public image. Royals, by virtue of their position, have a responsibility to connect with their people. Fashion is one way to do this. The right outfit can convey messages of solidarity, empathy, and even political alignment.

Take, for example, Meghan Markle's decision to wear a black dress during her first public appearance after her wedding. It was a subtle but powerful message of mourning, acknowledging the loss of her estranged relationship with her father. Similarly, when royals wear garments that symbolize their national heritage or values, they are also fostering a sense of unity with their citizens.

And why hide the thoughtful, understated sartorial gestures that genuinely resonate? I've seen firsthand, through my WhatsApp groups, just how moving it was for many, particularly in the Jewish community, to see the Princess wearing a pearl necklace from Susan Caplan, a vintage jewelry site whose founder is Jewish, at a Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration in London last week. It was a powerful and meaningful gesture at a time when so many feel vulnerable.

The bottom line is that we deceive ourselves when we downplay the significance of how we present ourselves, and making light of it is precisely what this statement does. This latest move from the Palace feels hesitant and somewhat apologetic when, in reality, it should be proud of everything the Princess of Wales accomplishes. That includes her role as a prominent ambassador for British fashion.

Decoding three of the Princess of Wales's most significant outfits

Catherine's choice of Saltire blue references the Scottish flag, and the outfit is a piece she's worn before, making it a more sustainable option than opting for something new. As for the jewelry, the Four-Row Japanese Pearl Choker once belonged to the late Queen and was worn by the previous Princess of Wales in 1982. Catherine wore it at both the funerals of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. By wearing it, she may be subtly acknowledging that Elizabeth II felt most at peace at her Scottish home, Balmoral. The Collingwood pearl drop earrings Catherine is wearing were a wedding gift to the young Lady Spencer in 1981.

The Baftas, London, 2023

The choice of Alexander McQueen for the occasion would have been significant to Catherine, as it's the label she selected for her wedding gown and one she consistently trusts for high-profile events. The gown adhered to the BAFTA's sustainable dress code, as it was a piece she already owned. For its second outing, the shoulder strap was altered to give it a refreshed look. Her earrings from Zara were a relatable choice, reminding us that Catherine, like the rest of us, enjoys a fashion bargain.

The Earthshot Prize Awards, Boston, 2022

This dress, by Solace London, was rented—a first for Catherine—and exemplifies her support for the sharing economy. The vibrant hue echoes the Earthshot mission: a commitment to a greener future. It also aligns with the late Queen's philosophy of wearing bold colors to ensure visibility in a crowd. Catherine paired the dress with an emerald choker, famously worn by Princess Diana as a headpiece, which became something of a talisman on a significant night for the Prince of Wales.

The Commercial Value of Royal Fashion Coverage

From a financial perspective, royal fashion is big business. The influence of royal family members on fashion brands is immeasurable. When a member of the royal family wears a particular designer or brand, sales can skyrocket almost overnight. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "Kate Effect" or the "Meghan Markle Effect," highlights the commercial power of royal fashion.

For example, when Kate Middleton was spotted wearing a high-street brand like Zara or Alexander McQueen, those brands experienced a surge in demand. This not only benefits the designers but also boosts the economy, as people seek to emulate the fashion choices of the royal family. In a world where celebrity endorsements often drive fashion, the royal family's influence is unrivaled.

By restricting media coverage of royal fashion, the Palace could potentially limit its role in promoting national industries, particularly designers and brands. Given that royal families often serve as symbols of national pride, their association with certain brands can be an effective marketing tool that elevates local designers on the global stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is royal fashion such an essential topic for media coverage?

Royal fashion matters because it offers unique insight into royal personalities, values, and roles. Fashion choices often reflect a royal's identity and can serve as a tool for communication with the public. It also has significant cultural and global appeal, influencing trends and sparking important discussions about social issues such as sustainability and inclusion.

How does royal fashion reflect a royal's personality and values?

A royal's wardrobe choices can reveal a lot about their character. For example, Queen Elizabeth II's bright, bold colors helped ensure she was visible and recognizable. Meanwhile, Princess Anne's practical, no-nonsense style aligned with her straightforward personality. Fashion is not just about looking good; it serves as a subtle way for royals to communicate their values and their approach to royal duties.

What role does fashion play in shaping public perception of the royal family?

Fashion plays a significant role in how the public perceives the royal family. Royals' clothing choices can convey messages of solidarity, empathy, or even political alignment. When royals choose garments that represent national pride or social causes, they foster a stronger connection with their people. Conversely, poor fashion choices or an overly extravagant wardrobe can create a sense of detachment from the public.

Why is the palace'sPalace's effort to limit media coverage on royal fashion problematic?

The Palace's attempt to limit media coverage of royal fashion disregards its power to connect royals with the public. Fashion has been used throughout history as a way to communicate with people on a personal level. By suppressing media attention, the royal family loses an opportunity to foster goodwill, make a positive impact, and promote social causes. Moreover, royal fashion can be used to support national designers and industries, something the palace risks undermining.

How does royal fashion influence global fashion trends?

Royal fashion has an immense impact on global trends. When a royal family member wears a particular designer or brand, it often causes a surge in demand for those products. This is seen with the "Kate Effect" or "Meghan Markle Effect," where their fashion choices have led to increased sales for the brands they wear. Royals are viewed as fashion icons, and their clothing choices can shape global conversations on trends, style, and sustainability.

Can royal fashion influence social and environmental causes?

Yes, royal fashion can be a powerful tool for promoting social and environmental causes. Royals like Meghan Markle and Princess Catherine have used their fashion choices to raise awareness about issues such as sustainable fashion, ethical labor practices, and gender equality. When a royal embraces eco-friendly or ethically sourced clothing, it can spark significant discussion in the media and among the public, encouraging people to consider the impact of their fashion choices.

Conclusion

Covering royal fashion is not merely a frivolous pursuit—it serves as a vital means of communication, a reflection of identity, and a platform for social influence. Royal fashion offers a unique window into the personalities, values, and evolving roles of royals, helping the public connect with them on a deeper, more human level. From shaping public perception to promoting important causes like sustainability and national pride, royal fashion plays an integral part in modern monarchy.

While understandable in some respects, the Palace’spalace's efforts to limit media attention to royal wardrobes miss the broader picture. Fashion is a powerful tool for engagement, advocacy, and connection. It humanizes royals, amplifies their social impact, and strengthens their relevance in today's world. By curbing media coverage, the palace risks diminishing this opportunity to connect with the public, promote causes, and support national industries.

Ultimately, royal fashion is far from a superficial aspect of their lives; it is a nuanced and influential form of communication. The Palace would be wise to embrace the media's coverage of royal fashion as a means of continuing to forge a strong, dynamic relationship with the public while advancing causes that matter most in today's society.