Princess Kate's 'unlikely' pastel makeover is a tactical fashion refresh


The mother of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis has worn a plethora of pastel shades over the last month - here's why


Kate Middleton wearing pastels© Getty
Laura Sutcliffe
Laura SutcliffeFashion and Beauty News Editor
18 hours ago
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The Princess of Wales looked resplendent on Thursday as she and her husband, Prince William, marked their 15th wedding anniversary with a work outing.

The royal couple paid a visit to IntoUniversity, an education charity that benefited from their royal wedding gift fund.

Prince William and Kate Middleton in a classroom© Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
Kate looked fabulous in her Erdem blazer

Kate opted for a sleek working-girl outfit consisting of a tailored pair of trousers by Edeline Lee, a sleeveless top by ME+EM, and her trusted Ralph Lauren heels.

Prince William and Kate Middleton talking to a group of children© Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
Kate looked stunning at the IntoUniversity

Giving her classic look a springtime kick, Kate added a fabulous new pastel blue blazer by Erdem. Identified by @Middletonmaven, the dazzling jacket is designed in the brand's 'Porcelain Blue' colourway. It's tailored from wool crepe and has peak lapels, a single-button closure, and angled flap pockets.

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A photo of Kate Middleton smiling in pink © Getty Images

Kate wowed in this lilac Emilia Wickstead dress

This is the third time the royal has worn pastel in less than a month. On 22 April, Kate looked pristinely polished as she stepped out at Buckingham Palace to attend a reception on the 100th anniversary of the birth of Queen Elizabeth. The 44-year-old surprised onlookers as she stepped out in lilac, a colour that she rarely wears.

The Princess of Wales talking to older man© Getty Images

Kate's fresh lilac dress was a bespoke creation by Emilia Wickstead, which featured a gathered bodice, midi-length flared skirt and three-quarter sleeves. It really lightened her complexion and gave her a youthful glow.

Catherine, Princess of Wales attends the traditional Easter Sunday Mattins Service at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on April 5, 2026 in Windsor, England.© Getty Images

Kate wore this stunning vanilla-coloured dress by Self-Portrait

On Easter Sunday, the enchanting royal looked incredible as she headed to St. George's Chapel alongside her husband, Prince William, and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, for the Easter Matins service.

Princess Charlotte of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales attend the 2026 Easter Matins Service at St George's Chapel on April 05, 2026 in Windsor, England© Samir Hussein./WireImage

Kate's pastel outfit was fresh and fabulous

Kate donned a fashionable yet classic outfit by Self-Portrait. Smiling joyously at onlookers, her dress was designed in a vanilla shade and featured a long-sleeved bodice that fell to a sumptuous midi skirt. The brunette royal carried one of her favourite 'mini' bags, the 'Nano Montreal' by DeMellier.

Pastel power

The Princess of Wales in navy and white coat dress© Getty Images

Princess Kate loves classic, regal shades such as navy

The Princess of Wales famously enjoys bold, primary colours which convey a regal feel. From navy blue and racing green to patriotic reds, these shades symbolise the monarchy and are acutely stylish.

Kate Middleton wearing blue at Royal Ascot in 2019© WireImage

The royal loves to wear pastel items at events such as Royal Ascot

The royal does opt for lighter shades in the summer months, though, particularly at events such as Royal Ascot and the Chelsea Flower Show.

Kate Middleton wearing a pink dress as she officially opens The Young V&A at V&A Museum Of Childhood on June 28, 2023 in London, England.  © WireImage

Pastel clothes can have a youthful effect

The reason for Kate's sudden foray into pastels could be due to the fact that she is getting older, and colour is an incredible anti-ageing hack. This tactical change gives her a more youthful stance.

Kate in grey funnel neck coat dress © Getty Images

Pastels can lift the complextion

Black and muted tones will always be in style, rightly so. But an easy way to revamp your complexion is to add a pop of colour. Blush pink tones in particular, are so uplifting to the eye. Baby blues, mint greens, and deeper pinks also highlight your features and make you appear fresher, too. 

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, wearing a blue dress at the Royal Charity Polo Cup 2023 at Guards Polo Club on July 6, 2023 © Getty Images

vibrant clothes add personality

Fashion stylist Julie Player agrees. "As we age, it becomes more important to embrace bolder and brighter colours. Neutral shades like grey and beige are dull and lifeless," she notes. "Classic clothes in neutral colours are essential for building a wearable capsule wardrobe, but add some personality with pops of vibrant colour," the talented professional told Best Quality Designer Handbag .

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