Catherine, Princess of Wales: A Style Icon with the Occasional Fashion Misstep
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, is celebrated for her timeless elegance and impeccable style. Over the years, her transformation from a reserved university student to a confident working royal and mother of four has been remarkable. While Catherine is known for her sophisticated wardrobe and sensational fashion moments, she has also faced a few rare and unexpected fashion missteps.
During her and Prince William’s royal tour of Sweden and Norway, a pregnant Catherine stunned in a blue velvet gown by London-based designer Erdem. The dress featured a white floral print, trumpet sleeves, a high neckline, and velvet bands accentuating her neck and waist. She completed the look with black suede heels, silver earrings, her wedding ring, and a neat updo. Her makeup was kept soft with smoky brown eyes, blush, and a light pink lip.
While many admired her look, the dress divided opinion. Critics on social media felt it overwhelmed her frame and deviated from her usual chic, understated style. One user on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, "Catherine is in another Erdem dress made from furnishing fabric... and why the black shoes?" Another simply tweeted, "Yikes!"
However, this fashion misstep didn’t overshadow the rest of her tour, where Catherine continued to dazzle with her sartorial choices.
Catherine’s wardrobe during the Scandinavian tour also paid homage to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. At a dinner hosted by the British ambassador, she wore a pearl bracelet and earrings that once belonged to Diana. Additionally, her red-and-white houndstooth coat reminded many of a similar Moschino outfit worn by Diana in 1990.
On the last day of their visit to Sweden, Catherine and William attended an event at the Fotografiska Gallery with Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden. Catherine wore another Erdem creation, while Prince William complemented her in a bright royal blue suit paired with a crisp white shirt and printed tie.
The royal couple also spent time with Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel’s children, Princess Estelle and Prince Oscar. The young royals charmed everyone with their smiles, with Princess Estelle wearing a light gray dress and Prince Oscar holding hands with his mother and sister as they greeted the Waleses.
Back in the UK, Prince George and Princess Charlotte remained at school and nursery, respectively, while their parents focused on the royal duties of the tour.
Earlier that day, Catherine and William visited the Karolinska Institute to learn about Sweden’s innovative approaches to mental health and child well-being. The couple explored how the Swedish education system supports young people in navigating mental health challenges—a topic close to their hearts.
As their tour continued to Norway, Catherine and William were set to stay at the Royal Palace of King Harald and Queen Sonja, where they would meet with Norwegian royals. Fashion enthusiasts speculated whether Catherine would debut another Erdem gown or pay tribute to Diana with one final stunning look before their return to London.
Catherine’s ability to balance her royal responsibilities, motherhood, and public appearances is nothing short of impressive. Her fashion journey, blending high-street finds with couture masterpieces, reflects her unique approach to modern royal life. Even with the occasional style misstep, she remains a true jewel in the British royal crown.
