Kate Middleton left royal fans doing a double-takeon Tuesday after quietly switching up her hair mid-engagement.
The Princess of Wales, 44, was carrying out a packed day of visits in West Yorkshire when eagle-eyed fans noticed something very different about her look. While the outfit change made sense for the schedule, it was Kate’s hair that really stole the show.
Kate Middleton debuts new hair look during royal engagement
On Tuesday, Princess Kate visited Bradford for a series of engagements focused on community support and the importance of nature.
Earlier in the day, the Princess of Wales stepped out with her long hair worn loose in soft, light curls. She paired the relaxed style with a tailored blazer, a mocha brown rollneck jumper and terracotta-toned trousers.
Kate first visited Family Action’s Children’s Trauma Therapy Service, where she met therapists, families and children, spending time learning about the vital work being carried out.
Later, the royal headed to Wakefield Trinity Rugby League Club to hear more about its outreach programmes. It was here that fans spotted the subtle but striking change, as Kate debuted a new hairstyle during the visit.
Princess of Wales wows fans with braid
For the second half of the day, Kate opted for a more practical look, swapping into a khaki green Barbour jacket. Alongside the outfit change, she also styled her hair differently.
Instead of wearing it loose, the Princess of Wales appeared with her hair pulled into a side braid. It’s a rare choice for Kate, who is more often seen with her hair worn down or softly styled.
The reaction from royal fans was immediate, with many taking to X (Twitter) to share their excitement.
“Outfit and hair change for the Princess of Wales! Obsessed with her hair in a plait,” one fan wrote.
“I really love her plait. This suits her so much,” another added.
“Completely feeling this change. She looks good,” a third commented.
“Seriously, Catherine’s hair is absolutely glorious,” another fan gushed.
Kate’s hair trick that fans still talk about
This isn’t the first time Kate has sparked a flurry of online reaction with a simple hair moment.
Back in September, the Princess of Wales impressed fans during an engagement in Cuxton, when she was seen pulling her long hair into a neat knot with apparent ease.
In a clip shared on social media at the time, Kate tied her hair up without using a hair tie, claw clip or bow, leaving viewers amazed.
“The Princess of Wales tries her hand at silk screen printing – she popped on an apron, tied her hair up (without a band – how?! ) and then got stuck in!” Daily Mail royal editor Rebecca English wrote on X as she reshared the video.
Last year also marked a more noticeable change to Kate’s appearance. Over the summer break, the Princess of Wales debuted lighter-looking locks. Speaking to Su Pollard during the Royal Variety Performance in November, Kate explained: “It used to be brown, but it’s gone light in the sunshine.”
Whether it’s a dramatic switch or a simple braid, Kate has a knack for turning even the smallest style update into a moment royal fans can’t stop talking about.
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