Kate Middleton broke royal protocol while meeting a group of children in Wales.She stopped by a local art gallery, where she hugged multiple onlookers who waited in the rain.Typically, members of the British royal family aren’t supposed to be touched.
Kate Middleton broke royal protocol in the most heartwarming way possible. After she and Prince William arrived in Wales on Thursday, Middleton greeted a gaggle of young fans with hugs.
The Princess of Wales stopped by Oriel Davies, an art gallery, where she spoke to multiple children who waited outside in the rain to meet her. Middleton embraced several of them, including one little girl who clung on to her wool coat.
Kate Middleton on February 26, 2026.
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Typically, people aren’t allowed to touch members of the British royal family, according to the BBC, though handshakes are permitted if a royal initiates it. Younger generations have since broken this rule, as Middleton’s late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, frequently hugged fans.
Middleton repurposed a maroon double-breasted Alexander McQueen coat while visiting Wales. She previously wore the structured piece back in 2024, when she and Prince William welcomed the Emir of Qatar at Buckingham Palace.
Kate Middleton on February 26, 2026.
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Middleton’s monochromatic ensemble also consisted of a bow-tie blouse by Me+Em and a pleated Co skirt. She topped off her look with matching leather boots. The Princess of Wales affixed a daffodil brooch to the lapel of her McQueen coat in honor of St. David’s Day. The yellow flower symbolizes the patron saint of Wales, who is celebrated annually on March 1.
Over the weekend, Middleton made a dramatic change to her brunette tresses, rocking tight-set curls at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards. Walking the red carpet in another recycled look—this time, a mauve Gucci gown that she debuted in 2019—Middleton ditched her loose waves for ringlets reminiscent of 1980s trends.
Kate Middleton and Prince William at the BAFTAs on February 22, 2026.
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The Princess of Wales decked herself in diamond jewelry, adding on a stunning bracelet and chandelier earrings passed down to her from Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth II, respectively.