Once again, the Duchess of Cambridge is following in the iconic footsteps of her late mother-in-law. This time, Kate Middleton wore the same hat as Princess Diana during the latter’s 1991 visit to Pakistan. Kate and Prince William are currently in the midst of a similar trip as part of their royal tour of the region. And while Kate likely makes more sartorial nods to Diana than are even realized, this particular instance stands out due to the distinctive nature of the hat worn by both women.
Fans of the royal family have already seen Kate pay tribute to her late mother-in-law once during this royal tour. On Monday, when she and William arrived in Pakistan for their five-day trip, Kate stepped off the plane in a bespoke aqua ombre dress with pants. The ensemble served as a modern twist on the shalwar kameez, a loose-fitting tunic with pants. And, as you may have guessed, Diana wore a similar look when she traveled solo to Pakistan in ’91.
Then, on Wednesday, Kate and William visited Chitral in the Hindu Kush region of Pakistan, near the Afghan border. Upon arrival, the royal duo was gifted with traditional Chitrali hats, which Kate immediately tried on — as the People’s Princess had done during her own visit. Fittingly, the Duke and Duchess were also presented with a book commemorating Diana’s 1991 trip.
The Duchess of Cambridge wears traditional hat similar to Diana's on Pakistan royal tour.#RoyalVisitPakistan
📷 via @PtiShani and @PApic.twitter.com/yCn1O2C778
— Elliot Wagland (@elliotwagland) October 16, 2019
This style of hat is customarily worn by men but, as a special guest, Kate (and Diana, when she visited) donned the bold cap. As the royal pair flipped through the photo book of Diana’s visit, William was reportedly delighted to notice the similarity. “The same hat!” he said, laughing, as per People. Kate chimed in, agreeing, “Very special.”
William and Kate received an official welcome to Chitral and were presented with a book of photographs of Diana, Princess of Wales’ visit to the region in 1991. Kate was given a regimental cap of the Chitral Scouts and a shawl, William an embroidered cloak #RoyalVisitPakistanpic.twitter.com/sLJ1AzHlXn
— Roya Nikkhah (@RoyaNikkhah) October 16, 2019
According to royal reporter Emily Andrews, William also received an embroidered cloak and Kate was given a “warm shawl.” Once again, Kate immediately put the shawl to good use and, judging by photos, seemed to genuinely enjoy the cozy gift.
The gifts were a welcome to the area before Kate and William’s official business: calling attention to climate change by visiting the mountains of Northern Pakistan. After receiving their gifts, the royals traveled via helicopter to the Chiatibo Glacier in Broghil National Park to observe and raise awareness about areas affected by global warming.
Leave a Comment