The Princess of Wales has unveiled a striking new hairstyle, leaving royal watchers divided — and sparking a flurry of online debate.
Kate Middleton, 43, debuted noticeably lighter locks during a family trip to Scotland with Prince William and their children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7. Photographed arriving at church in a Range Rover, the royal was seen wearing a dark hat — beneath which revealed her newly blonde tresses.
The change comes after fans had already noticed her hair appearing lighter at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships. But a fresh photo shared by British Vogue confirmed what many suspected: Kate has fully embraced blonde.
“It’s official: the #PrincessOfWales is entering autumn as a blonde,” read the magazine’s Instagram caption, noting that the royal’s signature chestnut-brown mane had been “entirely transformed” for an engagement at the Natural History Museum alongside Prince William.
Mixed reactions online
For some, the transformation was too dramatic. Critics commented that her new shade “washes her out” and made her look “older,” with one writing, “Chestnut brown looks lovely on her. Not a fan of the blonde.”
Others, however, rushed to her defense. “I think her hair is sensational,” one supporter wrote. “Beautiful even blonde,” said another. A third admirer added: “Princess with blonde hair, new phase of her life, new look. Always beautiful, her smile is the sun of the UK.”
The meaning behind the makeover
Beyond fashion, experts believe the new look carries symbolic weight. Behavioral and body language expert Darren Stanton said Kate’s dramatic shift likely reflects a deeper sense of empowerment.
“When people change their hair in such a dramatic way, it’s all about renewal, confidence, change and evolution,” Stanton explained, speaking on behalf of Betfair Slots. “This is the most dramatic and significant change she can make on an external basis.”
He added that while it may seem like a small adjustment for most, Kate is fully aware her hair choices are dissected worldwide. “Internally she’s feeling very powerful, in the best possible way — she’s feeling empowered,” Stanton said. “It’s a demonstration of how confident she is and that she’s looking forward to the next chapter, both personally and professionally.”