The Princess of Wales has long held unofficial status as Britain’s most reliable source of hair inspiration. Whether she’s experimenting subtly with colour or stepping out with that unmistakable glossy brunette finish, Kate Middleton rarely misses a beauty moment. But at this year’s BAFTAs, she introduced a small yet clever update to her signature hairstyle, and beauty experts are already calling it incredibly flattering, especially for women in their 40s.
Arriving on the red carpet, Kate wore her trademark long brunette hair loose and softly waved – classic royal glamour at first glance. Look closer, however, and the difference became clear. Instead of beginning her waves midway through the lengths, her hairstylist lifted the curl pattern much higher, creating noticeable volume right from the roots.
The result? A fuller, more balanced silhouette that framed her face beautifully. The hair flared outward around eye level, subtly directing attention to her smoky eye makeup and luminous highlighter. The curls themselves were tighter than her usual relaxed waves, adding drama without sacrificing elegance.
For years, Kate’s hair has followed a familiar formula – polished, cascading waves that start lower down and fall in a controlled, glossy curtain.
It’s a style so dependable it almost feels like royal protocol. But the BAFTAs called for something with a little more personality, and this look delivered.
Gone was the signature Sloane Square swish. In its place came a glamorous nod to the voluminous hairstyles of the 1980s – brushed-out curls with cinematic presence and unmistakable red-carpet energy. Think big-screen glamour rather than everyday blow-dry.
The overall effect felt reminiscent of Julia Roberts’ iconic ’80s hair era: soft yet expansive, romantic yet confident, the kind of volume that instantly elevates an outfit and a mood.
Importantly, though, the crown remained sleek and controlled, preventing the look from veering into retro costume territory. The shine stayed modern, refined and unmistakably royal.
It was less transformation and more evolution – a clever update rather than a dramatic reinvention. Imagine Studio 54 glamour reimagined for palace life: bold but composed, playful yet polished.
Of course, Kate’s beloved Kensington blow-dry isn’t going anywhere.
It remains one of the most recognisable beauty signatures in modern royalty. But this BAFTAs moment proved that even the most iconic styles benefit from occasional reinvention.
Awards season thrives on statement moments, and Kate delivered hers not through excess, but through intention – bigger hair, sharper styling, and just enough drama to remind us why she continues to set the gold standard for timeless beauty.
