Kate Middleton has long been known for her luscious brunette locks, but her polished public appearances are rarely as effortless as they may seem.
According to celebrity hairstylist Tina Farey, editorial director of RUSH Hair, the Princess of Wales relies on four “core” hairstyles that help her look polished, flattering and appropriate for different occasions.
Farey identified Kate’s go-to looks as the “practical ponytail,” “mermaid waves,” “half-up, half-down” and “classic updo.” Each style serves a different purpose, from keeping her hair out of her face during outdoor engagements to complementing formal royal ensembles.
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Mermaid Waves
One of Kate’s signature looks is a softer take on the mermaid-wave trend. Rather than the dramatic, heavily styled waves often seen on Instagram, Kate typically opts for loose curls with a side part, creating an elegant and understated finish.
The Princess wore a version of the look during The Royal Charity Polo Cup 2026 Guards Polo Club event on July 10 in Egham, England.
“Recently, the Princess of Wales has had four hairstyles at the core of her styling regime,” Farey told the Daily Mail. “Each look has established itself as a classic which she can wear again and again depending on the occasion.”
Half-Up, Half-Down
The mom of three also frequently turns to a half-up, half-down style, including during one of her Wimbledon appearances this year.
According to Farey, the hairstyle helps accentuate Kate’s naturally high cheekbones while “adding an understated elegance to her looks.” It also offers the best of both worlds by keeping some of her hair pulled away from her face while allowing the rest to flow freely.
Practical Ponytail
When Kate has an outdoor engagement on her schedule—particularly when windy weather could make loose hair difficult to manage—the practical ponytail becomes a reliable choice.
The style keeps her hair neatly out of her face while still looking polished and chic, making it particularly suited to more active public appearances.
Farey recommends using a light-hold hairspray when recreating the look.
“When styling the ponytail, I’d recommend spritzing a light-hold hairspray to tame any flyaways and ensure your hair stays in place all day!” she advised.
Classic Updo
For more formal occasions, Kate often opts for a classic updo, particularly when she is making a joint royal appearance with her family.
Rather than an elaborate high updo, the Princess frequently wears her hair in a low bun, sometimes positioned slightly to the side.
“Kate often wears her hair in a low bun, which suits her polished and pristine style, giving her light brunette locks ultimate radiance,” Farey said.
The low style also gives the 44-year-old the perfect opportunity to showcase headpieces, fascinators and other accessories. Positioning the bun slightly to the side can help create balance with whatever headpiece she chooses to wear.
Farey believes her rotating lineup of classic hairstyles complements her features while allowing her looks to transition seamlessly from casual outdoor engagements to major formal events.
“With an oval face shape, her sharp jawline and gorgeous high cheekbones are two of her most defining features—the combination of hairstyles she wears is timeless, easily transitioning into one another and flattering her face shape perfectly,” Farey concluded.
