Kate’s dazzling Royal Variety fashion moments show why she will be missed at this year’s event
She graced the red carpet at the Royal Variety Performance with regal elegance, her timeless style adding an extra touch of glamor to the proceedings.
But the Princess of Wales will not be attending this year’s event. Instead, King Charles will take her place, marking his first appearance since 2016.
Kate has attended the Royal Variety Performance five times and stole the spotlight on each occasion.
She made her debut in 2014 in a simple but elegant black lace dress by Diane von Furstenberg.
Since then, the princess’s fashion choices have evolved considerably, with distinctive looks from Alexander McQueen, Jenny Packham and Safiyaa.
Each of these outfits reflects not only her personal style development, but also her growing confidence as a member of the royal family.
Below, we take a closer look at each of Kate’s memorable appearances and how they follow her fashion journey.
The Princess of Wales at the 2021 Royal Variety Performance… she has attended the ceremony five times since her debut in 2014
Safiyaa, 2023
Kate unleashed her sartorial skills in Safiyaa’s ‘Destiny’ dress at the 2023 Royal Variety Performance.
The embellished neckline, structured shoulders and statement cape details combined modern sophistication with classic elegance.
Interestingly, Kate’s dress is made in an alluring teal shade called Poseidon – the exact shade of Penny Mordaunt’s iconic Coronation outfit.
The princess accessorized with J.Crew crystal and pearl earrings, a Jenny Packham ‘Casta’ lamé clutch and Emmy London ‘Rebecca’ suede pumps, all of which she had worn before.
Kate unleashed her sartorial skills in Safiyaa’s ‘Destiny’ dress at the 2023 Royal Variety Performance
Jenny Packham, 2021
In 2021, Kate dazzled in a sequin-infused emerald dress by Jenny Packham.
The dress, known as the ‘Tenille’, was previously worn during her official tour of Pakistan in 2019, where it left a memorable impression.
The vibrant hue and vibrant sparkle created a striking aesthetic that was perfect for the event.
To complement the dress, the royal wore a custom clutch, also by Jenny Packham, paired with Emmy London ‘Rebecca’ pumps and Missoma ‘Zenyu’ chandelier earrings.
Kate’s hair, styled in soft side-parted curls, marked a departure from her usual look, which, along with a pop of pink lipstick, was widely praised.
In 2021, Kate dazzled in a sequin-infused emerald dress by Jenny Packham
Alexander McQueen, 2019
Kate once again made a lasting impression at the 2019 Royal Variety Performance, opting for a stunning Alexander McQueen dress.
The dress expertly combined timeless allure with a modern twist, featuring a black floral lace overlay against a lighter underlay, a sweetheart neckline and a floor-length skirt.
Kate completed the ensemble with Jimmy Choo ‘Romy 100’ velvet pumps and a matching ‘Celeste’ clutch, as well as floral hoop earrings from Erdem.
Her choice of accessories and overall look cemented her status as a royal fashion icon.
In 2019, Kate made a lasting impression at the Royal Variety Performance wearing a beautiful Alexander McQueen dress
Jenny Packham, 2017
The princess, wearing a pastel blue dress by Jenny Packham, captivated onlookers in 2017.
Pregnant with Prince Louis, Kate showed off impeccable style with this intricately embellished dress, adorned with delicate sequins and beading.
The dress featured a sheer overlay which, combined with the glittering details, perfectly reflected her sophisticated aesthetic.
To take the ensemble to the next level, Kate selected a Jenny Packham ‘Casa’ crystal clutch, Oscar de la Renta ‘Cabrina’ pumps and Queen Elizabeth’s diamond chandelier earrings.
The ensemble was hailed as a sartorial triumph.
The princess, wearing a pastel blue dress by Jenny Packham, captivated onlookers in 2017
Diane von Fürstenberg, 2014
For her Royal Variety Performance debut in 2014, Kate opted for an understated black lace dress by Diane von Furstenberg.
The timeless ‘Zarita’ dress featured a scalloped neckline, V-back and sheer sleeves, while the figure-hugging design subtly accentuated Kate’s bump – she was pregnant with Princess Charlotte at the time.
Kate added a vintage Magid clutch, Jimmy Choo ‘Cosmic’ platform pumps and Kiki McDonough blue topaz ‘Lola’ earrings.
She styled her hair in a polished updo, setting the bar high for her future Royal Variety appearances.
For her Royal Variety Performance debut in 2014, Kate opted for an understated black lace gown by Diane von Furstenberg