Royal insiders are praising Kate Middleton for using her platform to promote British fashion instead of personally profiting from the attention. Her latest appearance has also sparked fresh comparisons to Meghan Markle and the different ways both women supposedly approach branding and public attention.
Ever since Meghan joined the royal family, the public has constantly compared the two women. People have spent years dissecting their appearances, interviews, body language, and fashion choices online. Rumors about tension between them only intensified after Meghan and Prince Harry stepped away from royal duties in 2020.
Kate’s latest trip abroad has only fueled those conversations even more.
The Princess of Wales is supporting the UK fashion industry
Kate traveled to Italy this week for her first solo overseas engagement in four years. She wore a cornflower blue suit by London-based designer Edeline Lee. She completed the look with a Holland Cooper blouse and an Asprey handbag.
The trip focused on early childhood development initiatives. However, Kate’s wardrobe quickly drew attention online.
A palace insider told RadarOnline, “Kate is very conscious that whenever she steps onto an international stage, particularly during an overseas tour.” They continued, “The clothes she wears instantly become part of a much larger conversation about Britain itself – its creativity, craftsmanship, designers and businesses.”
The source also said, “Those close to her say she sees fashion not as a commercial opportunity or a way to build a celebrity brand, but as another aspect of royal duty and soft diplomacy.”
Meanwhile, Meghan faced criticism after outfits from her Australia trip appeared on the commission-based AI fashion platform OneOff, which she reportedly invests in.
Critics called Meghan tone-deaf after expensive looks became associated with appearances involving Bondi Beach attack survivors and first responders. She also faced backlash for wearing luxury jewelry and designer pieces during a visit to a women’s domestic violence refuge.
“So, rather than turning attention toward herself financially like Meghan did in Australia, the emphasis is on using her visibility to quietly support the UK fashion industry, spotlight emerging talent and reinforce an image of British elegance and professionalism abroad.”
The source added, “Those around her believe she approaches clothing in the same way she approaches her charitable work – as something that can be used thoughtfully in service of a wider national interest rather than personal profit or self-promotion.”
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