The essence
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A royal expert wonders whether Kate Middleton's latest two outfits are a subtle hint at her next trip abroad.
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During two of her recent official engagements, the royal wore outfits from two new American designers.
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During her appearance on June 2, Kate also added another significant element by accessorizing with ruby jewelry.
During her time in the royal family, Kate Middleton perfected the art of creating "Easter eggs" in her outfits, regularly incorporating meaningful embellishments and details during official events. Now, a royal fashion expert wonders if the Princess of Wales's latest outfits are a subtle hint at her upcoming trip to the United States.
Kate Middleton attended a reception in support of the charity Cancer Research UK on June 2, 2026, in London. Photo: Getty Images
Kate is known for her commitment to "fashion diplomacy," where visiting royals wear pieces from local designers or inspired by local culture—a subtle gesture that demonstrates respect for the host country and fosters cultural ties without saying a word. A prime example: the princess's cornflower-blue pantsuit, which she wore during her most recent trip abroad to Italy as a nod to the country's national color, azzurro blue.
Kate Middleton attended a reception in support of the charity Cancer Research UK on June 2, 2026, in London. Photo: Getty Images
Keen royal watchers have certainly noticed that Kate has appeared in not one, but two different outfits from new-to-her-name American designers over the past two weeks. Blogger Carly Whitewood, writing about Kate Middleton's style, wrote on X: "Two royal appearances, two American brands, each of which she wore for the first time. As someone who has been following Kate's fashion choices for 15 years, I took notice.".
She shared her theories about Kate planning a trip to the US in the summer, analyzing her recent public appearances.
Kate Middleton in Reggio Emilia, Italy, on May 14. Photo: Getty Images
On June 2, the royal traded in her coat dresses and pantsuits for a striking, eye-catching look—a polka-dot collared dress from Los Angeles brand Rodarte, adorned with a white lapel trim and short sleeves. At a reception in honor of the charity Cancer Research UK, Kate accessorized the retro dress with a ruby necklace from G Collins & Sons and matching earrings, which she had previously worn during the US state visit to the UK in September.
Kate made her fashion debut on May 14 in Reggio Emilia, Italy, wearing Jenni Kayne, a designer often chosen by her daughter-in-law, Meghan Markle. The mother of three exuded understated chic, wearing a cream pleated midi skirt from the brand, which she paired with a striped blazer from Italian brand Blazé Milano and a matching belt.
Kate, whose last trip to the United States was to Boston with Prince William in 2022, has remained silent about the online speculation. However, Whitewood countered, "I know it sounds like an exaggeration, but it's happened before," citing several other instances where Kate's fashion choices have hinted at international travel, including a visit to Poland in 2017.
«"There are rumors that William and Kate may visit the US in July, in connection with America's 250th anniversary and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico," Whitewood wondered in her post. "Perhaps Kate will also go and attend several events planned for the beginning of the year as part of her Centre's work?"»
Read the original article on InStyle.