It’s widely acknowledged that Kate Middleton is a fashion icon, celebrated for her sophisticated ensembles, habit of rewearing stylish pieces, signature voluminous blowouts, and understated yet radiant makeup. We’ve curated three memorable instances from the 2000s, before she ascended to the title of Princess of Wales, where she opted for a minimal (or makeup-free) look.
From her initial foray into the limelight as a student at St. Andrew’s University, where she began her relationship with Prince William, to her current stature, Kate has experienced a remarkable evolution in style. Every aspect of her appearance has been refined, from the length of her skirts to the height of her heels, not to mention her ever-changing hairstyles. A significant element of her beauty transformation is her makeup.
As a seasoned member of royalty, it’s now uncommon to catch the mom of three without a perfectly groomed appearance. In contrast, her university days were marked by a natural, makeup-free look. While this more straightforward style differs from her present immaculate presentation, it retains a charming freshness. Undoubtedly, she is captivating whether adorned with makeup or barefaced.
Kate Middleton's Natural Glow: 3 Early 2000s Makeup-Free Moments
March 2005 Ski Trip With The Royal Family
Kate showed off her au naturel glow in March 2005, when skiing with her then-boyfriend William, his brother Prince Harry and father (then Prince now King) Charles. During Kate and William's time at the University of St. Andrews, it was difficult to discern the seriousness of their relationship. This ambiguity shifted in March 2005 when the couple were seen together at the Klosters-Serneus Alpine resort in Switzerland.
The trip lent credibility to their romance, Harry and Charles were also skiing, indicating Kate's integration into the family. The purpose of the getaway included allowing Kate to spend time with William's loved ones. Kate embraced the sporty vibe, skiing without makeup and maintaining an athletic, fresh appearance.
June 2005 Date With Prince William At The Beaufort Polo Club
Several months later, Kate and William were seen together at the Beaufort Polo Club in Westonbirt, England, once again indicating the deepening of their relationship. For the event, Kate opted for a minimalist ensemble featuring a rounded neckline tank top, white shorts, and a brown braided belt.
Her signature chocolate brown hair was styled in a casual updo, complemented by a sparkling pendant necklace, white sunglasses, and hoop earrings. She kept her makeup to a bare minimum, allowing her glowing natural complexion to shine through.
2007 Shopping Trip King's Road West London
In the early 2000s, long before collaborating with top stylists and dazzling us in bespoke designer attire, Kate frequently browsed the fashionable boutiques along King's Road in London.
This iconic stretch, starting from Duke of York Square at the Sloane Square end and extending westward to the Bluebird Cafe, was a hub of contemporary British fashion. In 2007, she was seen showcasing her natural beauty with minimal makeup, effortlessly captivating attention once more.
Amid her ongoing cancer treatment, Kate has made three notable public appearances in 2024. Her first outing was at the Trooping the Colour ceremony in June, where she stunned in a sophisticated white Jenny Packham dress, accentuated by a chic black striped belt and a matching bow at the neckline.
In July, she graced Wimbledon (above) wearing a striking purple midi dress by Safiyaa. Most recently, on August 25th, Kate attended a service at Crathie Church on the Balmoral Estate, sporting a light brown ensemble complemented by a feather hat. She was accompanied by her husband William, their 11-year-old son Prince George, her father-in-law King Charles and his wife, Queen Camilla.
