When Catherine, Princess of Wales, a.k.a. Kate Middleton, wears her hair in a braid, it’s typically paired with a fancy fascinator hat for a more formal occasion or outing. But the future queen of England occasionally has a hairstyling surprise up her well-dressed sleeve!
Middleton started her day in northern England wearing her hair in her signature full, long, blown-out waves, but as the day progressed, she changed things up in a somewhat surprising way. Maybe it was the weather, which looked cloudy and misty in photos. Maybe she wasn’t feeling the loose style against a turtleneck, scarf, and jacket combo. Or maybe she just felt like pulling her hair up and out of the way while walking through the scenic countryside! It happens.
Instead of a simple ponytail or easy low bun, Middleton opted for a side braid, which she wore tossed over one shoulder, and even added a jaunty tweed newsboy cap atop her head for an outdoorsy touch. (If you’re curious about her headwear of choice, royal watchers think it’s this one.)
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Now, I have some questions about the mechanics of this whole look. Did Middleton braid her own hair? It sure seems like it, as the braid looks like something you’d casually whip up in a pinch. Does she keep a ponytail elastic in her purse or back pocket of her pants, just like we normal folks do? Does she wear her hair in a braid when she’s hanging out at home, away from the public eye? When did she find time to change not only her hairstyle, but her outfit? (She was first wearing a brown turtleneck, then swapped it for a green.) And finally, does she call it a braid or a plait?
We love a queenly braid detail paired with a stylish hat, but this low-key style is really cute on the princess. The glamour is great, of course, but it’s also fun to see a glimpse at her more casual, sporty side.
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