Amanda Holden's Reaction to Princess Kate's Fashion Focus Shift

Amanda Holden Reacts to Princess Kate’s Surprising Decision to Shift Focus from Fashion to Philanthropy

By M Muzamil Shami - February 5, 2025

Amanda Holden has weighed in on Princess Kate’s unexpected fashion policy shift, a move by Kensington Palace to downplay the Princess of Wales's wardrobe in favor of highlighting her charitable work and philanthropic endeavors. This strategic change aims to keep the spotlight on the causes she champions rather than her clothing choices.

A royal source revealed to The Times, “Kate wants the focus to remain on the causes she supports and the people she meets, rather than her fashion choices.” This marks a significant departure from royal tradition, where royal fashion has historically been a subject of considerable public fascination and media attention.

Discussing this change on Heart Radio, Amanda Holden, 53, shared her perspective. While acknowledging and respecting Kate’s rationale, Holden suggested the move could have unintended consequences, particularly for the fashion industry.

“Oh my gosh, she’s absolutely right. People focus too much on what you're wearing when you're trying to do meaningful work,” Holden admitted, emphasizing the importance of Kate's focus on her charitable initiatives. She understands the potential distraction that fashion can create, especially when the goal is to raise awareness for important causes.

However, Holden also expressed concern for the fashion brands that have reaped the benefits of the “Kate effect”—the widely recognized phenomenon where clothing and accessories worn by the Princess of Wales experience a surge in popularity and often sell out almost immediately. This "Kate Middleton effect" has become a powerful marketing tool for brands, and the shift away from highlighting her outfits could have significant commercial implications.

Despite this new, more understated approach to fashion, Holden predicted that royal watchers, fashion enthusiasts, and style experts will inevitably continue to identify and track down the details of Kate’s ensembles. “People will always find a way,” she remarked with a laugh, acknowledging the enduring public interest in royal style. The curiosity surrounding what Kate wears, regardless of official statements, is likely to persist.

This development coincides with Princess Kate’s recent announcement that she is in remission from cancer. Her focus is now firmly fixed on her philanthropic efforts, including her work with children's charities, mental health initiatives, and other important causes. This renewed commitment to her charitable work underscores the significance of the palace's decision to shift the narrative away from fashion and toward her impactful contributions to society. The move reflects a desire to emphasize substance over style, aligning with Kate's dedication to making a real difference.