The Princess of Wales is usually praised for her subtle, diplomatic approach to fashion, using clothes to send messages without saying a word.
But not every outfit lands perfectly.
On her 2016 tour of India, Kate’s wardrobe choices, according to one designer, were “a holy mess.”
Her attempt at soft diplomacy through style didn’t exactly hit the mark.
A Tour Packed With Glitz and Glam
The six-day royal visit in 2016 saw the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge rubbing shoulders with Bollywood stars, exploring the Taj Mahal, and even going on a safari at Kaziranga National Park.
They also visited one of India’s top fashion houses, Anita Dongre in Mumbai.
Yet, despite this opportunity to support local designers, Kate mostly wore Indian-inspired patterns from British labels like Topshop, Temperley London, Anna Sui, and Jenny Packham.
Designer Critiques Are Blunt
Onita Prasada, a South Asian designer and director of O’nitaa London, didn’t mince words about the wardrobe choices. “It was a holy mess,” she said.
“I cannot put my finger on one garment that spoke volumes for the wealth of fashion that is available.
Someone got it really wrong; I was disappointed.”
Royal commentator Daisy McAndrew explained that soft diplomacy isn’t just about looking elegant—it’s about improving the standing of the British government and royal family in the host country, and attire plays a crucial role.
Learning From Mistakes: Pakistan 2019
Three years later, Kate approached her 2019 tour of Pakistan with lessons firmly in mind.
She and her stylist at the time, Natasha Archer, collaborated closely with Onita Prasada to perfect her wardrobe.
Over 300 outfits were tried, with careful attention to cuts, lengths, and local traditions.
A dupatta, a scarf worn around the ensemble, was recommended to show respect for Pakistani culture.
A Masterclass in Diplomatic Dressing
The results spoke for themselves. Kate’s outfits, including one designed by esteemed Pakistani designer Maheem Khan, were a hit in Pakistan and back home in the UK.
Baroness Ayesha Hazarika said, “She completely nailed it.
he looked naturally enthusiastic about respecting the culture and embracing fashion.”
Every choice was carefully considered, demonstrating that royal fashion can carry serious diplomatic weight.
A Grand Finale in Islamabad
The tour’s fashion highlight came during a reception in Islamabad.
The couple arrived in a brightly decorated tuk-tuk, with Prince William wearing a striking black Sherwani—a traditional long coat-style jacket—and matching trousers.
Kate’s elegant ensemble paired beautifully, and the moment was praised as a perfect fusion of tradition and style, showing the world a new way to celebrate Pakistani fashion.
Channel 5 Explores Royal Wardrobe Wins and Fails
These wardrobe successes and missteps are at the heart of a new documentary, Kate: A Life in 10 Dresses, airing Sunday at 9.30pm on Channel 5.
The program examines how fashion choices have played a role in Kate’s diplomatic work, from blunders in India to triumphs in Pakistan, proving that clothing is never just about style when it comes to royal visits.
