The royal family has strict fashion guidelines, but Kate Middleton doesn’t let these rules hold back her stylish sense of fashion. The Windsors usually avoid wearing black (except when mourning at funerals), yet Catherine, Princess of Wales, breaks the rule and often wears this ultra-chic color without hesitation.
Surprisingly, she doesn’t stick to wearing black only for evening wear like many traditionalists. In 2013, she donned a floor-sweeping Jenny Packham gown for the 100 Women in Hedge Funds Gala Dinner in aid of Action on Addiction. Fun fact: the dress was actually a very dark navy that appeared black in photos.
However, Middleton has not shied away from all-black daytime looks. When announcing the annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year award winner, she wore a striking Alexander McQueen suit, exuding major boss babe vibes.
On December 15, 2022, at the “Together at Christmas” carol concert, she wore an embellished black sequin cardigan from London – based brand Self-Portrait. The look was perfectly festive and ideal for the televised concert organized by the Royal Foundation.
Those who think black is somber clearly haven’t seen Catherine on the “Top Gun: Maverick” red carpet. The royal wore a sophisticated, body – hugging black gown by French designer Roland Mouret, with a stylish white collar.
Although the daring look might not have followed royal protocol, it was a tribute to her late mother – in – law, Princess Diana. Princess Di was famous for reinterpreting the royal wardrobe, bringing playful possibilities to a stuffy world.
Diana was the first to embrace wearing black and recognize it as a chic option for the red carpet and formal events. She refused to wear it as a subdued look for morning and instead wore black for uplifting celebrations. Just like Kate, she wore black to movie premieres like “Apollo 13” and “Dangerous Liaisons.”
While some may consider Kate’s fashion choices disrespectful or contrary to convention, they are actually an endearing homage to one of the world’s favorite royals. They are a new kind of traditional that honors the family she married into in a unique and creative way.
