4 Ways Kate Middleton's Style Has Changed Since She Became a Princess

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

As you already know, the passing of Queen Elizabeth triggered some major changes inside the British royal family, not least of which was Kate Middleton's new title. Previously known as the Duchess of Cambridge, she is now officially the Princess of Wales—the first woman to hold that title since the late Princess Diana

As expected, Middleton has handled the transition with grace, even paying homage to her mother-in-law via her fashion choices. Scroll down to learn about four ways I've noticed her style change since she became the Princess of Wales. 

1. More Symbolism

For her very first event as the Princess of Wales, Middleton wore LK Bennett's Spencer coat, no doubt an homage to the late Princess Diana's maiden name. Middleton often references her late mother-in-law's outfits—such as wearing baby blue with white polka dots for the birth of her first child, just as Diana did—but this tribute was particularly poignant because she was recognizing that Diana was the last person to use the Princess of Wales title. It was a symbolic way to honor the past while embracing the future of her role in the monarchy. 

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

2. More Vintage

Middleton rarely wears vintage pieces, so I definitely pay close attention when she does. In mid-October, she wore a vintage Chanel blazer in cobalt blue. Not only does she rarely wear vintage, but she almost never wears Chanel, making this a noteworthy departure from her typical fashion fare.

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

3. More Trousers

Middleton has been experimenting with trousers for the last couple of years, but she's really kicked it up a notch in recent months. Whereas she used to wear dresses nine out of 10 times, now she's wearing pants the majority of the time. We love a good style evolution. 

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

4. More Frequent Rewears

Middleton brought out the same camel coat twice in just two weeks. How can you blame her? It's so darn chic. We all know she has limitless pieces to choose from, so rewearing the same item in such a short time frame may be a bid to be seen as extra relatable as she transitions into her princess role. 

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Next: The Very Best New Blazers From H&M, Mango, and J.Crew

Associate Director, Fashion News

Erin got her start as aBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing intern over 13 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of Associate Director of Fashion News (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.