The Princess of Wales hasn't worn a mini dress publicly for several years, favouring a more understated midi style instead. However, in 2014, the then Duchess of Cambridge, as she was then, put a twist on a mini dress that proved this style can work for a royal lady.
Kate, now 44, was seen arriving at the Natural History Museum in her capacity as the institution's patron to attend the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards. Dressed in Jenny Packham, the royal rocked an icy blue gown featuring a skirt that, at the front, cut off several inches above the knee.
© Getty ImagesKate's royal tweak
However, to make it feel more in keeping with royal aesthetics, the back of Kate's dress was far longer and at certain angles, it covered her legs entirely. At the waist, the gown featured a wrap detail, and the top came with a V-shaped neckline and elbow-length sleeves.
© Getty ImagesAs for her accessories, the princess opted for Monica Vinader's £695 'Riva' earrings and the necklace to match, as well as a cream snakeskin clutch. Her shoes, the 'Agata' style from L.K.Bennett, were also a style she is unlikely to re-wear in 2026, as they featured a peep toe and statement bow on the ankle. Nowadays, the royal prefers simple suede court shoes with a stiletto heel.
Kate's best 2014 mini dresses
Throughout 2014, Kate, who turned 32 that year, wore knee-skimming dresses and skirts that have remained in her fashion past. Keep scrolling to see her most memorable picks…
© Getty ImagesGorgeous green
On 24 January, Kate wore emerald green while receiving an update on The Nook Appeal at East Anglia's Children's Hospices in Quidenham, Norfolk. The charity's patron wore a boucle pencil skirt and a matching fitted jacket by Hobbs and added a frilly Peter Pan collar for a feminine touch.
© Getty ImagesTerrific teal
On 13 April, William and Kate attended a Palm Sunday service at St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral in Dunedin, New Zealand. For the occasion, the princess switched it up in a pleated mini dress by Emilia Wickstead with a square neckline and a hat to match.
She wore a soft pink version in 2012 to a pre-luncheon reception at Windsor Castle for sovereign monarchs and guests in celebration of Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee.
© Getty ImagesOverseas elegance
On 17 April, the mother-of-three was spotted arriving at the Winmalee Guide Hall amid her and William's three-week tour of Australia and New Zealand.
She made the most of the Australian sun in Diane von Furstenberg's 'Patrice' wrap dress with heeled wedges, a style of shoe she has avoided since 2022.
© GettyRed carpet look
On 23 October, Kate made an appearance at the Action on Addiction Autumn Gala at the now out-of-business L'Anima in London.
Donning Temperley, Prince William's wife opted for a cut-out black mini dress with a slash neckline and paired it with platformed heels.
