Though the Princess of Wales has an astonishing handbag collection filled with stylish satchels, timeless top handles and chic croc embossed bags, there are many handbags she’s carried just once or twice.
Yet, her other more relied upon MVP purses have been in heavy rotation from palace parties to tours abroad to charity visits and special events, she’s managed to wear these bags over and over.
Kate’s all-time favorite bags tend to have a smaller or compact shape, be portable and lightweight. They’re neutral in nude or navy with very few embellishments or extras. She prefers them without straps or zippers.
So, which of Princess Kate’s bags has she carried the most?
Here are 8 of Kate Middleton’s Favorite Handbags of All Time:
1. L.K. Bennett Natalie Straw Clutch, $245
A classic clutch defined by its raffia exterior, this woven box bag made its debut on the princess at the Epsom Derby in June 2011 and was later seen in India.
The neutral compact handbag perfectly accents a breezy summer fashion statement or elegant daytime outfit.
The princess has worn the bag on nearly 25 occasions to Royal Ascot, Wimbledon and trips to Australia.
2. Mulberry Bayswater Clutch in Black Suede, $650
Carried on nearly 70 occasions, this ultra-thin designer bag is one of Kate’s preferred purses for its portability, versatility and manageability.
Sleek, slim and stylish, the petite handbag resembles a lightweight wallet.
Kat has carried the delicate evening bag from the famed British luxury label on international trips to New York, New Zealand and Norway among other destinations. She recently toted the black bag to Trooping the Colour in June 2024.
Featuring the brand’s iconic Postman’s lock stamped with the label’s famed tree logo, this is one of Kate’s most used bags of all time.
3. Stuart Weitzman Muse Clutch in Navy Suede, $360
The princess owns this bag in four different versions including: nude snakeskin, brown, black and blue suede.
This long rectangular clutch was one of Kate’s favorites during her early years as a working member of the Firm.
Often worn with sapphire shaded wool coats, her navy Duchess blazer or blue tweed skirt suits, this bag hails from the popular UK high street brand Russell & Bromley has been a perennial favorite for the future Queen.
She’s worn her ‘Muse’ clutch in navy on 25 occasions and her black ‘Muse’ on 12 royal engagements.
4. Prada Black Satin Clutch with Stone Embellishment, $1470
Priced at $1470, this satin bag is one of Kate’s most luxe and lavish handbags.
Worn on seven occasions, this black box clutch is the perfect piece for carrying to special galas, dinners and overseas cocktail parties.
Classy and contemporary with a shiny stone top closure, this statement bag is one of Kate’s favorite designer clutches. The square shape offers a structured silhouette for an elegant and minimalist finish while the silky exterior makes the bag pleasant to carry for long periods of time.
Also occupying space in her enviable bag collection, the princess also owns a similar clutch from Prada in a blush shade and another style from the label in burgundy velvet. In addition, she has been photographed carrying a tan bowler and white tote bag from the Italian fashion house—in total she owns five pieces of shoulder candy from the Milan-based brand.
5. L.K. Bennett Nina Clutch in Trench Leather, $197
The ultimate Crown closet essential, this $200 bag has been on regular royal rotation since the princess premiered the bag in May 2016 at a charity outing at the Anna Freud Centre.
Subsequently, Her Royal Highness toted the compact leather box clutch with its striking goldtone frame for garden parties, parades, special luncheons and trips to Canada and the Netherlands.
Perfect for pairing with nearly any outfit from cream colored to bright neon green, polka dot or floral, this remains one of Kate’s most called upon accessories.
6. Mulberry Bayswater Clutch in Cranberry Suede, $560
A soft suede clutch ideal for the holiday season, this pliable and pretty bag has all functionality of a slim wallet but also comes equipped with a functional chain strap.
Carried since she becoming a noble leading lady for her first Christmas with her royal relatives in December 2011 and for a trip to Canada in the fall of 2016, the bag has appeared on the princess’ person on 11 total occasions.
The sleek clutch-wallet is most often worn with burgundy dress-coats or berry colored ensembles.
7. Mulberry Small Amberley Crossbody Bag in White Grain Leather, $1048
A top handle bag with retro charm, this bag boasts the brand’s signature Rider’s Lock clasp inspired by the metal detailing on horse bits and bridles.
The tonal ring hardware adds a hint of panache to the glamorous grab bag.
Kate often wears the flap front purse for special occasions like Wimbledon outings, trips to the Caribbean or for rugby matches in her namesake Cardiff, Wales.
She frequently covets wearing the carryall with vintage-minded polka skirts and midis as well as with retro tea dresses.
8. Jaeger Kate Quilted Navy Shoulder Bag, $197
Worn on eight occasions, this trendy quilted bag has been a mainstay in Princess Kate’s closet since its debut in the summer of 2012 when she donned the classic crossbody with its Chanel-esque flair for a visit to Nottingham in celebration of the jubilee with the late Queen Elizabeth.
Since then, Kate continues to opt for the diamond quilted crossbody for trips to local schools, Wimbledon excursions and community centre visits.
The princess isn’t the only Middleton lady in love with the sleek shoulder bag, her mother Carole and sister Pippa also own the pliable and cushy day bag in a peachy tan hue.
{Images via Kensington Palace, Getty/PA}
Straw Box Clutch
