Kate Middleton has swiftly returned to her classic brunette locks after a brief foray into blonde hair, a change that captivated royal watchers worldwide. The Princess of Wales confirmed her reversion to brown hair during a surprise appearance with Prince William at The National Federation of Women’s Institute on September 8, 2025, marking the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s death. Her hair was styled in loose curls, showcasing the familiar rich brown hue with subtle highlights.
Middleton first debuted the honey blonde transformation during an official outing at London’s Natural History Museum on September 4. Accompanied by Prince William, her new lightened hair was worn down in long, waves, representing the most dramatic hair change of her royal tenure. This appearance followed initial sightings of lighter locks on August 24 during a church outing near Balmoral Castle, which had already sparked speculation among fans and media.
The blonde look generated widespread online buzz, with social media platforms flooded with reactions ranging from surprise to admiration. Many noted that the new color was a significant departure from her signature style, which has remained largely consistent since her marriage in 2011. Royal experts highlighted that such a bold change is rare for Middleton, who typically maintains a polished and predictable appearance.
Just two days later, on September 6, hints of a reversal emerged when Middleton attended the Women’s Rugby World Cup match between England and Australia in East Sussex. There, she wore her hair pulled back in a half-updo with curls, and although the style made it somewhat ambiguous, the color appeared darker, suggesting a return to brunette.
The definitive confirmation came on September 8 during the Women’s Institute event, where her hair was clearly brown and worn down. This engagement, which honored Queen Elizabeth, provided clear visual evidence that the blonde experiment had ended. Middleton’s quick shift back to her natural color underscored the transient nature of the change.
Throughout her public life, Middleton has seldom altered her hair color significantly, with past variations limited to minor highlights or temporary styles. Her chestnut brown hair has been a staple at events like Trooping the Colour and Wimbledon, often styled in a voluminous blowout that has become her trademark.
In the wake of the transformation, Sam McKnight, who was Princess Diana’s personal hairstylist, came to Middleton’s defense on Instagram. He expressed shock and disgust at the negative comments, stating that a woman’s hair is very personal and serves as armor and confidence. His support highlighted the intense scrutiny royal family members face regarding their appearance.
The rapid reversion to brown hair may indicate that the blonde look was either a temporary experiment or met with mixed reception. As Middleton navigates her recovery from cancer and increasing public engagements, her style choices continue to be a focal point, reflecting both personal preference and the pressures of royal life. Future appearances will likely be closely watched for any further changes.