“Wimbledon’s Fashion Icon: The Princess of Wales”
The British royal family has enjoyed a long-standing connection with Wimbledon, dating back to 1907 when the then-Prince of Wales and Princess Mary (later King George V and Queen Mary) made their first appearance at the prestigious tennis tournament. Throughout the years, Wimbledon has become known not only for its thrilling matches but also for its remarkable style, attracting a diverse range of A-list celebrities including Beyonce, Bradley Cooper, Malala Yousafzai, and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
Despite the star-studded guest list, it is Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, who truly reigns as the style champion of Wimbledon. An ardent fan of tennis, Kate has been attending the event for nearly a decade and her fashion choices have garnered widespread attention. In 2016, she assumed the role of patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) after Queen Elizabeth II stepped down. By that time, Kate had already established herself as a prominent figure at Wimbledon.
Throughout her Wimbledon appearances, Kate Middleton has consistently impressed with her elegant and sophisticated ensembles. Whether it’s a chic summer dress, a tailored suit, or a statement hat, her outfits always exude grace and style. Fans and fashion enthusiasts eagerly anticipate her appearances, as each one becomes a new fashion moment to remember.
As a style icon and patron of the AELTC, Kate Middleton’s fashion choices have solidified her status as the modern face of Wimbledon. Her love for the sport, combined with her impeccable fashion sense, has made her a true ambassador for both tennis and style, leaving a lasting impact on the intersection of sports and fashion at this prestigious event.
Princess Kate, whether seated in the prestigious Royal Box alongside her husband Prince William or presenting trophies to victorious players, consistently showcases impeccable style at Wimbledon. Notably, she fearlessly repeats ensembles that prove to be successful choices. Her fashion repertoire encompasses a range of looks, from dresses that pay homage to the tournament’s iconic white dress code to vibrant and eye-catching outfits embellished with polka dots. Throughout her appearances, Kate’s natural elegance and classic style shine through, complemented by carefully chosen accessories that add a thoughtful touch to her ensembles.
In addition to her fashion prowess, Kate’s genuine excitement for Wimbledon is evident in her animated facial expressions. Even as a member of the royal family, she exudes contagious enthusiasm, unable to suppress her joy and passion for the sport. This authentic display of emotions further endears her to the public and cements her status as a relatable and beloved figure.
Kate Middleton’s unwavering style, paired with her genuine love for tennis, make her an integral part of the Wimbledon experience. Whether she’s gracing the Royal Box or participating in on-court presentation ceremonies, her presence adds an extra touch of glamour and excitement to this historic tournament.
Recalling Princess Kate’s Court-Side Fashion Triumphs at the 2023 Wimbledon Championships
2007
Before becoming a member of the royal family, Kate Middleton displayed her passion for tennis by attending Wimbledon matches. Even in 2007, when she was known as Prince William’s girlfriend, Kate eagerly watched the tournament, showcasing her impeccable style. During one memorable occasion, she sported a red dress paired with a black cardigan, exuding a casual yet chic look. Kate’s presence at Wimbledon even before her royal status further solidifies her longstanding connection to the sport and her genuine love for the event.
2008
In the subsequent year, Kate made a return to the black cardigan, but this time she chose to wear it as a layering piece over a white midi dress. This fashion choice demonstrated her ability to experiment with different styles and create unique and trendy looks. By combining the black cardigan with the white midi dress, Kate achieved a sophisticated and elegant ensemble that showcased her fashion-forward sense. This outfit combination not only highlighted her fashion sense but also showcased her ability to effortlessly blend classic and contemporary elements for a perfectly balanced look.
2011
Just a few months following the widely watched broadcast of Prince William and Kate’s wedding, the newly appointed Duke and Duchess of Cambridge made their inaugural appearance at Wimbledon. Adhering to the Wimbledon court dress codes and maintaining a touch of bridal elegance, Princess Kate opted for an all-white ensemble. She donned a breathtaking tiered dress designed by Temperley London, featuring pleating reminiscent of a tennis skirt, which was a fitting choice for the occasion. To complete her look, she accessorized with nude heels, a nude clutch, and her iconic bouncy blowout hairstyle. Princess Kate effortlessly blended her personal style with the appropriate dress code for the event, exuding grace and charm during their first official Wimbledon appearance as a married couple.
2012
For the men’s quarter-final match in the Royal Box alongside Prince William, Kate made a stylish entrance wearing a cream dress designed by Sarah Burton, the creative director of Alexander McQueen (the same designer behind her unforgettable wedding gown). The cable-knit frock featured a sailor collar and navy stripes, adding a touch of nautical flair to her ensemble. To complement the dress, Kate opted for navy pumps that matched the navy stripes, creating a cohesive and put-together look. She also accessorized with her stunning sapphire-and-diamond engagement ring and earrings, which added a touch of sparkle and elegance to the outfit. Once again, Kate showcased her impeccable fashion sense and ability to effortlessly combine classic and on-trend elements for a chic and sophisticated appearance.
2012
In another appearance at the Wimbledon, Kate once again opted for a cream ensemble. She wore a sleeveless dress from Joseph, paired with a matching jacket. This coordinated outfit choice showcased her refined taste and attention to detail. As she watched the men’s singles final, Kate was accompanied by her sister, Pippa Middleton, further adding to the excitement of the occasion. Kate’s cream outfit exuded elegance and sophistication, reflecting her innate sense of style. She effortlessly captivated attention with her timeless fashion choices, making a statement at the event.
2014
In 2013, Kate was unable to attend Wimbledon as she was heavily pregnant with Prince George. It marked the only year, aside from the canceled matches in 2020, that she did not make an appearance. However, she made a triumphant return the following year, wearing a stunning white embroidered dress by Zimmermann. The dress, crafted from cotton, featured elegant elbow-length sleeves and a fitted waist, accentuating her figure. To inject a pop of color into her ensemble, Princess Kate chose vibrant accessories. One notable piece was her fan-shaped clutch by Anya Hindmarch, made from woven straw, which added a touch of playfulness to her look. With her impeccable taste and ability to effortlessly combine high-end designer pieces, Kate once again showcased her status as a style icon during her return to Wimbledon.
2014
During her second Wimbledon appearance in 2014, Princess Kate showcased her fearless approach to fashion by combining bold colors and patterns. She wore a striking green and blue geometric-print dress designed by Jonathan Saunders. This vibrant and eye-catching dress was a testament to Kate’s willingness to experiment with different prints and hues. The geometric pattern added a modern touch to the classic silhouette of the dress, creating a visually dynamic look. By confidently mixing bold colors and patterns, Kate once again demonstrated her impeccable fashion sense and ability to make a statement with her style choices. Her appearance at Wimbledon was undoubtedly memorable, leaving a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts.
2015
Kate Middleton is known for her impeccable fashion sense and her ability to elevate her outfits with the perfect accessories. The combination of a bright red L.K. Bennett dress and a leopard-print clutch from Diane von Furstenberg is a classic example of how a well-chosen accessory can transform a look. The red dress serves as the focal point, exuding elegance and confidence. However, it’s the addition of the leopard-print clutch that injects a touch of personality and intrigue into the ensemble. The clash of bold colors and patterns creates a visually striking and fashion-forward statement. By skillfully combining these contrasting elements, Kate once again demonstrated her flair for fashion and her mastery of accessorizing to perfection.
2016
In the subsequent year, Kate attended the ladies’ semi-finals at Wimbledon in a radiant yellow dress by Roksanda. The dress featured white colorblock details at the sleeves and hemline, adding a stylish touch to the ensemble. To complement the white accents of her dress, she carried a white Victoria Beckham Quincy tote, exhibiting her keen eye for coordination.
Before the match, Kate engaged in various activities, including meeting tournament officials, armed forces personnel, and the ball boys and girls of the event. Notably, she also had the opportunity to meet Oracene Price, the mother of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. This encounter further highlighted the prestigious nature of the event and Kate’s involvement in its festivities.
By donning a vibrant yellow dress and accessorizing with a chic white tote, Kate’s fashion choices exuded both confidence and elegance. Her engagements with prominent figures further reinforced her role as a representative of the royal family and her support for the sport of tennis.
2016
A few days later, Kate once again graced the Royal Box at Wimbledon, accompanied by Prince William. For this occasion, she chose a bespoke version of a dress that originally appeared in the Alexander McQueen pre-fall 2016 collection. The dress featured a unique print adorned with various images, including lipsticks, skulls, moths, and eyes, which showcased a more quirky side of Princess Kate’s fashion choices.
Although unconventional for her usual style, Kate effortlessly made the look her own by accessorizing with two timeless pieces: her trusted Cartier watch and a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. These classic accessories helped balance the boldness of the dress, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall ensemble.
With her impeccable taste and ability to adapt any outfit to her personal style, Kate demonstrated her fashion prowess once again. By confidently embracing the printed design and combining it with her go-to accessories, she created a unique and memorable look that perfectly showcased her individuality and fashion-forward mindset.
2017
In 2017, Kate attended her first Wimbledon as the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. This significant role coincided with her debut of a polka dot ensemble, a style that would later become synonymous with her Wimbledon appearances. For the occasion, she opted for a white-and-black polka dot dress designed by Dolce & Gabbana.
The dress exuded timeless elegance with its classic print and flattering silhouette. To complete the look, Kate paired the dress with black suede sandals, providing a chic and comfortable footwear choice for the event. She also carried her trusted Victoria Beckham tote, a classic accessory that perfectly complemented the monochromatic color scheme of her outfit.
By sporting this polka dot dress, Kate showcased her ability to embrace contemporary trends while still maintaining her sophisticated style. Her outfit choice demonstrated her keen fashion sense and her ability to effortlessly blend high-end designer pieces with more accessible accessories. This iconic Wimbledon look marked the beginning of Kate’s love affair with polka dots and became a notable moment in her fashionable journey as a royal patron of the prestigious tennis tournament.
2017
On her second appearance at the 2017 Wimbledon tournament, Kate made a stylish statement in a custom Catherine Walker dress. The fit-and-flare design showcased her impeccable fashion choices once again. The dress featured cap sleeves and a beautiful wildflower and poppy print, adding a touch of freshness and elegance to her look.
In addition to the captivating dress, Kate accessorized with a purple and green pin. This pin symbolized her role as the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, effectively paying homage to the event and her involvement in it. The choice of colors, purple and green, was a thoughtful nod to the prestigious club’s official colors.
With her custom Catherine Walker dress and the meaningful pin, Kate effortlessly demonstrated her graceful style and her dedication to her patronage. This ensemble perfectly encapsulated her ability to blend fashion and symbolism while showcasing her support for the sports event and her role as a royal patron.
2018
In 2018, Kate and Meghan attended the ladies’ singles finals at Wimbledon, and their coordinated outfits created quite a buzz. While Meghan chose a striped Ralph Lauren shirt paired with wide-leg pants, Kate opted for a stunning white cap-sleeve gown designed by Jenny Packham. The dress featured playful black polka dots that cleverly resembled tennis balls, adding a touch of whimsy to her ensemble.
To complete her look, Kate wore nude pumps and carried a Dolce & Gabbana Sicily bag, both of which added sophistication and complemented the overall aesthetic. Of course, her go-to Cartier watch was also on her wrist, adding a timeless element to the outfit.
The choice of a white gown with tennis ball-inspired polka dots showcased Kate’s ability to incorporate tennis-themed elements into her fashion choices for the occasion. The coordinated appearances of Kate and Meghan demonstrated their shared sense of style and their ability to stylishly attend public events together.
Once again, Kate displayed her fashion prowess and her talent for selecting outfits that perfectly suit the occasion. Her attention to detail and flawless execution of the Wimbledon-inspired look further solidified her status as a fashion icon.
2018
In their second appearance at the Championships together, Kate opted for a fitted frock in a vibrant yellow hue from Dolce & Gabbana. The dress showcased her impeccable style and effortlessly highlighted her figure.
The choice of a yellow Dolce & Gabbana frock not only demonstrated Kate’s confidence in wearing bold colors but also added a touch of elegance to her overall look. The fitted silhouette of the dress emphasized her sartorial choices while maintaining a sense of sophistication.
By selecting this yellow dress, Kate once again showcased her ability to make fashion statements and capture attention with her impeccable style. Her choice of a Dolce & Gabbana frock proves her willingness to experiment with different designers and embrace unique and eye-catching ensembles for special occasions.
2019
In 2019, Kate made a memorable appearance at Wimbledon with her take on tennis whites. She donned a 1940s-inspired dress designed by the eco-conscious brand Suzannah. The button-down frock became one of her favorites, as she has been seen wearing it on multiple occasions, showcasing her inclination for re-wearing fashion pieces.
For Wimbledon, Kate styled the midi dress with a black bow belt and a black leather trim satchel bag, both from McQueen. These accessories added a touch of sophistication to the ensemble while complementing the overall aesthetic. Completing her look, she opted for a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses, adding a touch of glamour to her outfit.
Kate’s choice to wear an eco-conscious brand like Suzannah highlights her commitment to sustainable fashion. Her ability to effortlessly style and re-wear her favorite pieces not only showcases her personal style but also promotes the idea of conscious consumption and the importance of investing in timeless fashion choices.
Overall, Kate’s 1940s-inspired dress from Suzannah was a delightful and well-received choice for her Wimbledon appearance, demonstrating her impeccable fashion sense and her ability to create stylish and timeless looks through thoughtful accessorizing.
2019
During a later tournament, Kate attended alongside Meghan and Pippa, showcasing another stunning ensemble. She opted for a beautiful forest green dress designed by Dolce & Gabbana, featuring gold button accents that added a touch of elegance and sophistication to her outfit.
To complement her dress, Kate chose to bring back her Dolce & Gabbana Sicily bag, which added a sense of continuity and tied the look together. The choice of a nude pump for footwear further accentuated the dress and added a classic touch. This combination of accessories allowed the dress to remain the focal point of the ensemble.
Kate’s choice of the forest green Dolce & Gabbana dress demonstrated her ability to select elegant and timeless pieces that suit her personal style. The gold button accents and her choice of accessories showcased her attention to detail and ability to effortlessly put together a polished and cohesive look.
Overall, Kate’s appearance in the forest green Dolce & Gabbana dress, paired with her signature Dolce & Gabbana Sicily bag and nude pumps, exemplified her fashion-forward approach and her ability to create a sophisticated and fashionable look for the occasion.
2019
In her final appearance at Wimbledon in 2019, Kate had the special privilege of presenting the Championships trophy to the men’s singles finals winner, Novak Djokovic. For this significant event, she selected a beautiful pastel blue dress from Emilia Wickstead. The dress featured twisted detailing along the shoulder straps, adding a touch of unique elegance to the ensemble.
Kate’s attention to detail extended to her choice of accessories. She paired the dress with an intricate beaded clutch, which added a hint of glamour and intricate craftsmanship to her look. Complementing the clutch, she wore ankle-strap heels that enhanced the overall sophistication of her outfit. Additionally, she adorned herself with pearl drop earrings, adding a touch of timeless elegance.
With her choice of the Emilia Wickstead blue dress and carefully selected accessories, Kate showcased her impeccable taste and style. The soft pastel color reflected a sense of grace and femininity, while the twisted detailing and beaded clutch brought elements of sophistication and intricate design.
Overall, Kate’s final Wimbledon appearance in 2019 was marked by her choice of the Emilia Wickstead blue dress, complemented by the beaded clutch, ankle-strap heels, and pearl drop earrings. Her ensemble epitomized her ability to effortlessly combine classic elegance with contemporary fashion, further solidifying her status as a style icon.
2021
In 2021, when Kate attended the Wimbledon Championships after a year of cancellation due to the pandemic, face masks became a necessary accessory. Keeping up with the style moment, Kate made a fashionable return and opted for a different outfit choice compared to her usual go-to dresses.
For the occasion, she chose a navy polka dot midi skirt designed by Alessandra Rich, adding a playful touch to her ensemble. She paired it with a classic white t-shirt and a navy blazer from Smythe, creating a chic and sophisticated look. This outfit showcased her ability to switch up her style while maintaining her timeless elegance.
To complement the navy and white color scheme, Kate accessorized her outfit with a Mulberry Amberley bag and white heels. These choices further accentuated the overall sophisticated and coordinated aesthetic of her ensemble.
Kate’s choice to wear a navy polka dot midi skirt with a white t-shirt and navy blazer illustrated her sartorial versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles. The combination of playful polka dots with classic silhouettes demonstrated her ability to effortlessly blend contemporary elements with timeless elegance.
Overall, Kate’s attendance at the 2021 Wimbledon Championships was marked by her stylish adaptation to the circumstances, showcasing her fashion-forward approach and ability to curate chic and memorable looks, even during unprecedented times.
2021
In her second appearance at the Wimbledon Championships in 2021, Kate had the honor of presenting the ladies’ singles finals trophy. For this special occasion, she opted for a green dress designed by Emilia Wickstead. The choice of the vibrant green color added a refreshing and eye-catching element to her outfit.
To complete her look, Kate paired the Emilia Wickstead dress with the same white Jimmy Choo pumps she wore during her previous appearance at the tournament. The choice of the white pumps added a classic and sophisticated touch, allowing the attention to remain on the dress and the significance of the event.
Kate’s choice of the green Emilia Wickstead dress showcased her ability to select elegant and flattering designs that suit her personal style. By wearing the same white Jimmy Choo pumps, she emphasized her ability to create versatile and timeless ensembles using existing pieces from her wardrobe.
Overall, Kate’s second appearance at the Wimbledon Championships in 2021 was marked by her choice of the green Emilia Wickstead dress, paired with the white Jimmy Choo pumps. Her ensemble demonstrated her fashion-forward approach and her ability to create effortlessly chic and polished looks for significant occasions.
2021
In her final appearance at Wimbledon in 2021, Kate reverted to a classic silhouette with a blush pink dress by Beulah London, a brand known for its commitment to supporting victims of sex trafficking. The ethically-conscious choice of attire added an extra layer of significance to her ensemble.
The short-sleeved crepe midi dress boasted button detailing and a tonal belt, providing a fitted and elegant look. The blush pink color further enhanced the femininity and grace of the outfit, while the midi length added a touch of sophistication.
To comply with COVID safety measures, Kate wore a floral print mask throughout the grounds of Wimbledon. This demonstrated her commitment to prioritizing safety while still incorporating personal style into her look.
Continuing with the theme of timeless elegance, Kate accessorized her ensemble with a beaded clutch and nude ankle strap heels. These accessories added a refined and polished touch to the overall outfit. Interestingly, the beaded clutch and nude ankle strap heels were previously worn by Kate to Wimbledon, showcasing her ability to create versatile looks using existing pieces from her wardrobe.
Overall, Kate’s last appearance at Wimbledon in 2021 was marked by the blush pink Beulah London dress, featuring button detailing and a tonal belt. Her commitment to ethical fashion, demonstrated by her choice of the brand, added a deeper layer of significance to her ensemble. With her attention to detail and thoughtful accessories, Kate once again proved her ability to effortlessly exude elegance and grace at important events.
2022
In 2022, Kate began her Wimbledon appearances by cheering on the men’s quarter-finals players. For this event, she chose a vibrant and eye-catching bright blue pleated polka dot dress designed by Alessandra Rich. The dress’s pleated design added movement and depth, while the polka dots brought a playful element to the ensemble.
To complement her dress, Kate opted for her dependable Mulberry Amberley handbag, which added a touch of sophistication and practicality to her look. Accessories included a pair of pearl drop earrings, which added a classic and elegant touch. Additionally, she wore tortoise frame sunglasses, providing both style and protection from the sun.
Kate’s choice of the bright blue pleated polka dot dress showcased her ability to select bold and fashionable pieces that suit the event’s atmosphere. The combination of the vibrant blue color, playful polka dots, and pleated design created a visually appealing and sophisticated look.
Overall, Kate’s appearance at the men’s quarter-finals in 2022 was marked by her choice of the Alessandra Rich bright blue pleated polka dot dress, complemented by the Mulberry Amberley handbag, pearl drop earrings, and tortoise frame sunglasses. Her ensemble demonstrated her confidence in embracing bold colors and patterns while maintaining her timeless and elegant style.
2022
For the ladies’ singles final, Kate chose yet another stunning design, this time in a sunny yellow shade by Roksanda. The dress featured short sleeves and structured shoulders, adding a touch of sophistication. The fitted bodice flowed gracefully into an ankle-length skirt, creating an elegant and feminine silhouette.
To complement her dress, Kate opted for classic accessories. She wore white heels, which added a timeless and polished touch to her look. Her choice of citrine and diamond earrings added a subtle pop of color and sparkle, accentuating the sunny yellow dress.
Given the sunny weather, Kate wisely opted for a practical sun hat and cat-eye sunglasses. These accessories provided both style and protection from the sun, showcasing her practical approach to fashion.
Kate’s choice of the sunny yellow Roksanda dress demonstrated her ability to select vibrant and flattering colors that suit her complexion. The structured shoulders and fitted bodice added a modern and tailored touch, while the ankle-length skirt added a sense of grace and elegance.
Overall, Kate’s attire for the ladies’ singles final consisted of the yellow Roksanda dress paired with classic white heels, citrine and diamond earrings, a practical sun hat, and cat-eye sunglasses. Her ensemble showcased her ability to effortlessly combine timeless elegance with practicality, ensuring that she looked chic and poised throughout the day.
2022
During the men’s singles final at Wimbledon, Kate and her son Prince George made a coordinated appearance in the Royal Box. While Prince George wore a navy suit, Kate opted for a navy and white polka dot dress designed by her go-to designer, Alessandra Rich.
The Alessandra Rich dress featured a feminine bow and decorative button details at the front, adding a touch of elegance. The navy and white color combination provided a classic and timeless look, suitable for the occasion.
To accessorize her outfit, Kate chose diamond and sapphire jewelry, which added a touch of sparkle and complemented the navy color of her dress. Additionally, she wore Bulgari cat eye sunglasses, both stylish and practical for the outdoor event.
The coordination between Kate and her son showcased their bond and attention to detail in their appearances together. The navy suit worn by Prince George matched perfectly with Kate’s navy and white polka dot dress, creating a cohesive and charming duo.
Overall, Kate’s attire for the men’s singles final at Wimbledon included the navy and white Alessandra Rich polka dot dress adorned with a feminine bow and decorative buttons. She completed her look with diamond and sapphire jewelry and Bulgari cat eye sunglasses. Her ensemble demonstrated her ability to create a coordinated and stylish appearance while maintaining her classic and elegant style.
2023
In a highly anticipated and talked-about look, the Duchess of Cambridge paid homage to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, by taking inspiration from her iconic style. Kate’s outfit consisted of a retro Balmain blazer in a refreshing mint green shade, which added a touch of vintage glamour to her ensemble.
To evoke a classic tennis aesthetic, Kate paired the mint green blazer with a pleated white midi-skirt. This nod to tennis whites, a traditional attire at Wimbledon, added a sporty and elegant touch to her look. The white skirt perfectly matched the blazer’s contrasting white lapel and buttons, creating a cohesive and stylish outfit.
To complete the ensemble, Kate opted for white pointed-toe heels and carried her trusty Mulberry Amberley bag, both in matching white. The choice of white accessories added a sense of sophistication and further enhanced the timeless and elegant vibe of the outfit.
During her appearance, Kate was joined by Wimbledon champion Roger Federer, with whom she had played a few sets just weeks before the tournament. This detail highlighted her active involvement in the sport and added an element of excitement to the overall look.
Kate’s mint green Balmain blazer, paired with a pleated white midi-skirt, white heels, and a Mulberry Amberley bag, exemplified her ability to pay tribute to Princess Diana’s fashion legacy while maintaining her own sense of style. The ensemble demonstrated her appreciation for classic and timeless fashion choices, as well as her involvement in the world of sports.
Overall, Kate’s outfit was not only a stylish tribute to Princess Diana but also a well-executed combination of vintage and modern elements, showcasing her fashion flair and involvement in the Wimbledon atmosphere.