The Princess of Wales is fond of colorful dresses and often wears teal, red or hunter green designs. She’s frequently found in dotted dresses and floral prints. Still, rarely does the princess wear purple.
Yet, to mix up her wardrobe now and again — she will add new hues to her revolving fashions.
Case in point: her Safiyaa Cecilia Midi Dress in Lilac. Worn for Wimbledon in July 2024, the dress was a major departure for the mom of three who often gravitates toward emerald shades or on-theme tennis colored styles for the tournament.
The Wimbledon branding is associated not only with green (tennis balls, courts and the outdoors) but also the shade purple. The hue is thought to symbolize the exclusivity, tradition and prestige of the tournament which is the oldest in the world.
While the princess rarely dresses in purple, she has on occasion picked plum or lilac hued designs for royal duty. The color is strongly correlated with royalty and luxury.
Here are 5 of Kate Middleton’s Best Purple Dress Moments:
1. Emilia Wickstead Kate Lavender A-Line Dress
A vintage inspired dress with a fitted bodice and full skirt, this soft lavender dress is made of 100% wool. Kate wore the bespoke knee-length dress on two occasions — for a royal tour of Germany in July 2017 and a Global Mental Health Summit in October 2018.
2. Alexander McQueen Lilac Grecian Gown
A custom creation from Alexander McQueen, this gauzy floor-length gown is ethereal and elegant. Featuring layers of cloud-like pleated chiffon flowing into a full skirt, the mesmerizing dress has been seen on the princess on two formal occasions. Kate donned the design in July 2011 at the star-studded BAFTA Awards in Los Angeles; later, she upcycled the dress for the green carpet at the Earthshot Prize Awards in October 2021.
3. Dolce & Gabbana Purple Guipure Lace Dress
The princess’ first ever D&G dress worn on duty — this eggplant colored sheath appeared on the future Queen at Lancaster House for a meeting with the President of China in October 2015. Boasting a high neck, tonal silk blend slip and seamed waist, this lacy cocktail dress was perfect for a State Visit in autumn.
4. Issa Ruched Dress in Purple
Appearing on the princess in Canada in July 2011, this violet wrap dress was a striking choice for an evening concert at Ottawa’s Parliament Hill. Kate looked sensational in the figure hugging silk dress with a deep V-neckline and ruched bodice.
5. Safiyaa Cecilia Midi Dress in Lilac
Designed in heavy crepe, this jewel toned dress has a twisted bodice and structured sleeves. Founded by Daniela Karnuts, the royally approved line is known for their sophisticated and sleek designs with an emphasis on their original orgami-like drapes and unique silhouettes. Jessica Simpson, Sofia Vergara and Nicole Richie are also fans of the London based label.
