Princess of Wales hat moments ranked: Expert breaks down Kate's best headwear looks
Princess Kate has delivered some of her most memorable style moments through her choice of statement hats
The Princess of Wales has long demonstrated a flair for a statement outfit, but when it comes to warm-weather dressing, a beautiful hat often provides the perfect finishing flourish.
Whilst Royal Ascot demands headwear as part of its strict dress code, it is far from the only occasion on which Kate, 44, has showcased her talent for exceptional millinery.
"The Princess of Wales is a master of modern headgear. Whatever hat she chooses, whether a percher style, a wide-brim look, or even a casual cap, she always achieves a refined and modern silhouette that still feels regal," award-winning personal stylist Susie Hasler, who runs Styled by Susie, tells us.
2026: An oak leaf hat with personal significance
Most recently, Kate stepped out alongside fellow members of the royal family for the annual Easter Sunday service at St George's Chapel, Windsor, wearing an oak leaf oyster hat that made an immediate impression.
"The neat, sculpted shape of this percher hat complements her face beautifully without the drama of an oversized brim, creating a refined and modern silhouette that feels effortlessly regal," Susie explains.
"The oak leaf detailing also carried a subtle personal meaning. The motif is thought to be a nod to the Middleton family coat of arms, which features an oak tree, and Kate has often been seen wearing oak leaf-inspired jewellery and accessories over the years as a quiet tribute to her family heritage."
2023: Cobalt blue at the coronation service
Opting for considerably more vibrant colour, Kate attended the National Service of Thanksgiving and dedication to the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla at St Giles' Cathedral in 2023 in a striking cobalt blue ensemble.
"Cobalt blue is one of Kate's signature colours and one she returns to time and time again, as it works so beautifully with her colouring and naturally elegant style," says Susie.
"I particularly loved the satin hat, with its matching satin feather and intricate twisted detailing, which added glamour and texture while still feeling refined and sophisticated."
2020: A timeless dark red at the Commonwealth service
The Commonwealth service that same year called for a rare foray into deep red. "What makes this particular piece so successful is the shade of red. Kate suits cooler, slightly muted tones, and this elegant blue-based red works perfectly with her colouring," the stylist explains.
"A warmer, more orange-toned shade could easily have felt overpowering, whereas this softer crimson hue enhances her natural complexion beautifully while still making a sophisticated statement."
2019: Powder blue Philip Treacy at Royal Ascot
Whilst the dark red moment impressed, Kate's powder blue look from Royal Ascot in 2019 proved equally successful in sartorial terms. "The Philip Treacy rosette saucer hat worn with her elegant Elie Saab dress created an incredibly polished and harmonious look," says Susie.
"Kate always looks striking in blue tones, but this particular shade worked especially beautifully, enhancing her eye colour while complementing her dark hair perfectly.
"The softness of the pastel hue illuminated her complexion in a very natural way, adding freshness and elegance without overwhelming her colouring. It's a wonderful example of how wearing the right tones can make a look feel effortlessly radiant."
2017: A rare pink moment at Trooping the Colour
Kate demonstrated the power of pink in Alexander McQueen at the 2017 Trooping the Colour parade — a colour she seldom reaches for, though one that Susie considers a winning choice given Kate's so-called "summer" palette, which is best suited to cooler, more delicate tones.
"The elegant pastel hue gave her look a wonderfully romantic and polished feel. The flamboyant custom-made Jane Taylor 'Lyssa' straw hat, featuring layered tones of pink, added drama and personality while still feeling refined and regal," the stylist explains.
"The mix of soft, rosy shades worked beautifully with Kate's complexion, enhancing her natural colouring in a very fresh and feminine way."