Kensington Palace is reportedly making a change in its protocol by no longer releasing details about the outfits worn by the Princess of Wales during her royal engagements. According to reports from the Sunday Times, Kate Middleton has expressed frustration with the emphasis placed on her fashion choices, rather than the substantive work she undertakes. The decision signals a shift away from the focus on the Princess’s style towards highlighting the importance of her engagements and charitable causes.
In the past, Kensington Palace regularly provided information to the media regarding Kate’s clothing and jewellery selections, leading to a phenomenon known as the “Kate effect” where brands saw increased interest and sales when worn by the royal. However, a source from Kensington Palace revealed to the Sunday Times that the Princess wants the spotlight to be on the significant issues, people, and causes she supports, rather than her wardrobe choices. While details may still be shared for important state or family events, the emphasis is now on substance over style.
Recent engagements in south Wales saw a shift in the reporting, with Kensington Palace refraining from releasing outfit information for Kate’s visits to the Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice and the Welsh knitwear manufacturer Corgi. These engagements highlighted Kate’s patronage of the hospice and her support for British industry. As she continues her public duties post her cancer remission announcement, the Princess remains dedicated to shedding light on crucial issues and making a positive impact through her work.
Moreover, amidst these changes, Kate Middleton has launched a new initiative through the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood. The initiative aims to develop social and emotional skills within the nation, addressing issues of mistrust and misunderstanding prevalent in today’s society. The Shaping Us Framework seeks to increase awareness of these essential soft skills and inspire action at all societal levels to create a more empathetic and understanding community.
The decision to focus on substance rather than style reflects Kate’s dedication to using her platform for meaningful impact. By redirecting attention towards the causes she supports, the Princess of Wales aims to spark conversations and actions that address critical societal issues and promote positive change. This strategic shift underscores Kate’s commitment to making a difference and leveraging her influence for the greater good.
As Kate continues to engage in public duties and charitable endeavours, her work serves as an inspiration to many. By taking a deliberate step away from superficial aspects, such as fashion details, the Princess underscores the importance of prioritising substance and impact in her role. This move by Kensington Palace reflects a broader commitment to highlighting the significant contributions and initiatives undertaken by the royal family, showcasing their dedication to making a difference within the community and beyond.