How Princess Kate Can Avoid More Embarrassing Shoe Criticism at This Year’s Trooping the Colour
It’s that time of year again when the British royals gather for the monarch’s birthday. The day, which consists of a military pageant and state ceremonial parade, is known as Trooping the Colour, and many royal watchers will have their eyes on the fashion worn by the members of King Charles’ family.
The Princess of Wales (formerly known as Kate Middleton) is one member of the Firm royal fans look forward to seeing most each year since she rarely disappoints. However, the princess did receive some criticism in 2025 for her shoe choice.
Prince William’s wife donned a beautiful aqua blue and white Catherine Walker coat dress last year, but her decision to pair that with nude-colored heels had people talking, as some believed those shoes “ruined” her whole outfit.
Now, an expert is sharing what we can expect from Kate this year, as the princess will make sure there won’t be a repeat of last year.
Nick Ede is a UK-based brand and culture expert and public relations specialist with over 20 years of experience in fashion and entertainment. He is a regular commentator on television and in the press. Alongside his media work, Ede runs a PR agency and is a dedicated charity campaigner, having raised significant funds and awareness for stroke charities through his initiative Style For Stroke. He was also once close friends with Meghan Markle.
Speaking on behalf of Cafe Casino, Ede told Showbiz Cheat Sheet, “Kate’s fashion choices are always scrutinized, so even a shoe choice can dominate the headlines. The safest route is to ensure every element feels perfectly packaged.
“I expect the princess to choose something again that’s sophisticated and symbolic. She often uses fashion to send subtle messages, whether that’s supporting British designers or choosing colours that reflect the tone of the occasion. We will likely see impeccable tailoring, a beautifully structured coat dress and elegant millinery. She knows that Trooping the Colour is one of the most photographed events of the year,
so every detail will be meticulously planned.”
Ede opined that Kate may even choose to coordinate outfits with her daughter, Princess Charlotte, again like she did in 2025, saying, “I wouldn’t be surprised at all. Coordinated dressing between Catherine and Charlotte has become one of the most talked-about aspects of recent royal appearances because it creates such a powerful visual representation of the future of the monarchy. If they do match again, I suspect it will be done subtly through colour palettes, detailing or accessories rather than identical outfits.
“What makes Catherine so influential isn’t simply what she wears but how she wears it. She understands the importance of dressing for the moment and the audience. At Trooping the Colour she isn’t dressing as a celebrity or fashion influencer; she’s dressing as the future queen. That’s why her looks resonate so strongly. They feel aspirational, elegant, and glamorous, while still remaining relatable enough for women to take inspiration from them through classic tailoring and timeless style.”
