A Pink Power Suit and '90s Shoes—Kate's Latest Look Is Giving Big Barbie Energy

When I flip through the back catalogue of Kate Middleton’s outfits that I have in my mind, a selection of colours stand out as her most reliable. The Princess of Wales is a firm fan of blue, be it cobalt or sky, striking reds and emerald greens, with many outfits in such shades getting two or more outings each (it’s well documented that she loves re-wearing even her most iconic looks). However, whilst carrying out royal engagements today, Princess Kate wore a colour that is very much trending but that we seldom see her in. 

Of all the fashion trends this summer, I have feeling pink is going to be the most prevalent, no less because of the hotly-anticipated Barbie move that premieres in a couple of months. Whether it’s bubblegum or blush, designers play with the colour each and every season, making it a surprisingly timeless investment. Still, the film’s release has given us all official license to embrace the colour like never before, and it seems Princess Kate is making the most of the moment, with not one but two ensembles in as many days. First, let’s talk about her Alexander McQueen suit. 

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(Image credit: GETTY IMAGES)

Though I stand by the statement I made about how, up until recently anyway, the Princess of Wales rarely wears pink, true to form, she has actually worn this suit before—last year in fact. A gorgeous shade of rose pink, the expertly cut blazer, which features a strong shoulder and clean lapel, pairs perfectly with the taper-cut trouser, which sits delicately on the ankle, allowing for a stand-out shoe moment (more on her footwear later). For an appearance in June last year, Kate styled her two-piece suit with a simple white vest underneath, accompanied by subtle but sparkling diamond earrings. However, for 2023, she embraced a more statement look, adding in a co-ordinating chiffon blouse and a belt adorned with a pearl buckle, both by Camilla Elphick. Rounding off her outfit with white stiletto court shoes from Gianvito Rossi, this ‘90s footwear staple is something she's worn a handful of times lately and always seems to give her looks a stylish edge. 

Earlier this week, Kate wore a bright pink pleated shirt dress from elevated label Me+Em to take in the impressive displays at the Royal Chelsea Flower Show. Could this be Kate Middleton’s new signature colour? When she looks this good in it, it’s hard to imagine otherwise. Scroll on to shop a selection of pretty pink pieces of which I think Princess Kate would approve. 

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(Image credit: GETTY IMAGES)

Shop the Pink Colour Trend, As Seen On Kate Middleton

Next Up: Kate Middleton Just Wore the Surprising Denim Trend That's All Over H&M and Zara

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Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.