Royal returns to public duties, showing off her most dramatic hair change ever after summer break.
Princess Kate Middleton made heads turn this week when she stepped out with a stunning new look that’s got everyone talking. The 43-year-old royal showed off major blonde highlights and significantly longer hair during her first public appearance since summer break.
Kate appeared at London’s Natural History Museum alongside Prince William on September 4, marking their first joint royal duty after spending the summer months away from the spotlight. Her new hairstyle was impossible to miss – flowing blonde locks that reached the middle of her back.
The transformation represents the most dramatic change Kate has made to her famous hair in years. Her signature brunette color now features bright golden highlights that catch the light beautifully, while the length has grown considerably longer than her usual shoulder-length style.
For the museum visit, Kate wore her hair in her classic loose waves with a side part, showcasing the full extent of her blonde makeover. The bouncy blowout style she’s known for looked even more glamorous with the new lighter color and extra length.
Royal watchers first noticed hints of the hair change back in August when photographers caught Kate driving to church near Scotland’s Balmoral Castle with William and their three children. Even from a distance, her hair appeared much lighter and longer than before.
The August sighting was a big contrast to how Kate looked at Wimbledon in July, where her hair was a much darker brown color. The dramatic change happened sometime during the royal family’s summer break.
Comparison photos – Kate at Wimbledon in July vs. recent blonde look
Kate has always been known for switching up her hairstyle over the years. She’s tried everything from short layered cuts to curtain bangs and various shades of brown and blonde highlights. Her hair has become almost as famous as she is, with women around the world copying her look.
Back in 2017, Kate even made headlines when she quietly donated seven inches of her hair to charity. The Little Princess Trust uses donated hair to make wigs for children who lose their hair during cancer treatment.
This hair reveal is especially meaningful given Kate’s recent health journey. The princess announced in March 2024 that she was getting cancer treatment and later shared in September that she had finished chemotherapy. Just this January, she announced she’s now in remission.
During her cancer treatment, Kate chose not to use a cold cap, a device that helps prevent hair loss during chemo. A patient she met at The Royal Marsden Hospital in January said Kate told her she “didn’t have to have it,” noting how awful it would have been for Kate to lose her iconic hair.
The Natural History Museum visit was perfect for Kate, who serves as the museum’s royal patron. She has always been passionate about nature and spending time outdoors, a passion that became even more important during her recovery from health issues.
The royal couple didn’t let a little rain dampen their spirits during the outdoor event, getting soaked alongside young students but keeping positive attitudes throughout the visit.
Kate’s stunning hair change marks a fresh start as she returns to royal duties looking healthier and more radiant than ever.
