Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, has returned to her signature brown hair color just days after surprising the public with a dramatic blond transformation, as observed during her attendance at the Women’s Rugby World Cup on September 6, 2025.
On Saturday, Middleton was enthusiastically applauding from the stands at the American Express Stadium in East Sussex, England, during the match between England and Australia. Her hair, which had been a striking blond merely two days prior, now appeared to be back to her familiar chestnut brown, elegantly pulled into a half ponytail that complemented her sophisticated outfit of a dark blazer and ruffled white top accessorized with hoop earrings.
The blond debut occurred on Thursday, September 4, during a joint appearance with Prince William at the Natural History Museum in London. There, Middleton’s long, curly blond hair, parted slightly off-center, stole the spotlight and marked a significant departure from her usual style, immediately sparking widespread media attention and public discussion across social media platforms.
Reactions to the blond makeover were polarized, with some critics voicing disapproval online, while others embraced the change. Royal hairstylist Neville Tucker, who previously worked with Queen Elizabeth II, defended the transformation, predicting it could inspire a trend towards blond or honey-toned highlights. He noted that this was the blondest Middleton has ever been, describing it as a dramatic yet fashionable shift.
At the rugby event, Middleton’s hair, while darker, still exhibited subtle golden undertones, suggesting a possible toning down rather than a complete reversal. Her cheerful and engaged demeanor during the match highlighted her role as patron of the Rugby Football Union for England, a position she took on in 2022 after it was redistributed from Prince Harry.
Prince William, meanwhile, attended a separate Women’s Rugby World Cup match between Wales and Fiji in Exeter, emphasizing their respective patronages—he has been patron of the Welsh Rugby Union since 2016. This division of duties underscores their shared passion for the sport, which they also enjoy with their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, often leading to friendly familial rivalries.
Middleton’s hair changes have frequently influenced fashion trends throughout her public life, and this quick revert to brunette may reflect a personal preference or a temporary stylistic experiment. It occurs amid broader personal developments for the royal family, including plans to move to a new home, Forest Lodge, later this year for a fresh start following Middleton’s successful cancer treatment.
As Middleton continues her royal duties post-summer break, this event underscores her status as a fashion icon and the intense public scrutiny faced by royals. The rapid hair color change not only captivates fans but also highlights the ever-evolving nature of celebrity style and its impact on broader cultural trends.