Kate Middleton has been doing a ton of royal engagements lately, and apparently there’s more to her outfits than meets the eye. Apparently, the Princess of Wales’ looks come down to “the art of sartorial diplomacy,” a nod to Queen Elizabeth II’s motto “you have to be seen to be believed.”

“This philosophy, which shaped the Queen’s wardrobe for decades, ensured that she remained instantly recognizable in a crowd,” expert Lisa Talbot tells the Daily Mail. “Now, the Princess of Wales is carrying this torch, embracing vibrant block colors that balance elegance with visibility, an approach that is both strategic and symbolic.”

the princess of wales attends the 2025 irish guards' st. patrick's day parade

Chris Jackson – Getty Images

So, what’s the purpose behind Kate—and the Queen before her—wearing blocks of color in public? It’s all about standing out in a crowd.

“This wasn’t just a personal preference; it was a deliberate choice to connect with the public, ensuring that even those at the back of a vast crowd could catch a glimpse of their monarch,” Talbot explains. “Princess Kate has adopted the same formula, most recently seen at the St. Patrick’s Day parade and the Commonwealth Day Service, where her tailored, monochrome outfits commanded attention without the need for embellishment. Her ability to blend tradition with modernity is a testament to her understanding of royal style as a tool for communication.”

the british royal family celebrate commonwealth day

Chris Jackson – Getty Images

Wearing “head-to-toe block color” enables Kate to photograph well, and be the focal point at events. But there’s also the fact that “she is subtly reinforcing a visual connection to the Queen, honoring her legacy while making the style her own. Through carefully considered tailoring and contemporary accessories, she modernizes the look, making it relevant to today’s fashion landscape while maintaining the regal polish that royal watchers expect.”

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