Since making her royal debut at Garter Day in 2008, Princess Kate has skyrocketed into the global spotlight, transforming herself into one of the world’s leading royal style icons and an influential figure in contemporary fashion. She effortlessly mixes high-street brands like Zara with cult favorites such as The Vampire’s Wife, showcasing a wardrobe as diverse in brand as it is in color.
Over the years, the Princess of Wales has been seen wearing almost every shade— from buttercup yellow at Wimbledon to the rich burgundy she chose during the recent state visit of Donald Trump. However, there is one color she almost never wears: orange. In fact, it’s been nearly three years since she was last spotted wearing this vibrant hue.
Royal style watchers have noted that Princess Kate seldom appears in orange. This choice isn’t due to any royal protocol forbidding the color; after all, the late Queen Elizabeth II was known for her stunning orange outfits. Kate herself has worn orange on occasion, suggesting this is a matter of personal preference.
HELLO! previously spoke with colour analyst Gabriella Winters of Chromology UK, who has over a decade of experience in personal color analysis. She explained that the most likely reason behind Kate’s avoidance of orange lies in how the color complements her natural coloring.
“I think the answer lies in DNA and Kate’s awareness of how certain colors are less flattering compared to others,” Winters said. She elaborated: “People absorb and reflect colors differently depending on their unique biological makeup. When a color is placed next to your face, it reflects its wavelength onto you.”
Certain colors can enhance one’s appearance, making skin look healthier and more radiant, while harmonizing with eye and hair color to make features ‘pop’. Conversely, colors that clash with your natural tones may cast unflattering hues—yellowish or greenish tints from overly warm colors, or greyish or reddish tones from colors that are too cool.
While this isn’t always evident—Princess Kate has looked striking in orange on the few occasions she’s worn it—this color theory likely influences her tendency to steer clear of the shade.
The last time the Princess of Wales wore orange for a public engagement was in January 2023. She donned a tangerine two-piece by Gabriela Hearst during a visit to Foxcubs Nursery in Luton. The ensemble featured a slim-fitting turtleneck sweater paired with a matching ribbed midi skirt, accessorized with a croc-print leather belt from Ralph Lauren that beautifully broke up the monochrome look.
As someone who writes about royal style daily, I’m a fan of this look and would love to see more orange outfits from Kate in the future. However, considering her apparent personal preference, it may be a while before the vibrant shade makes a regular return.
https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/866491/one-colour-princess-kate-never-wears-why/
