I'm a royal expert and Princess Kate's latest fashion move speaks volumes

Few wardrobe moments send the style world into a frenzy quite like a Princess Kate's outfits, and her recent appearance in a chic bouclé dress at Wimbledon last month has done just that. With its textured weave, timeless silhouette, and nod to Parisian tailoring, the piece struck the perfect balance between classic elegance and modern polish.

Driven by the unmistakable 'Kate effect', bouclé has quickly emerged as one of the season's most coveted fabrics, propelled into the spotlight by the royals impeccable styling. The 43-year-old's choice has sparked a surge in interest from fashion lovers eager to emulate the look, with online searches for bouclé dresses and jackets climbing sharply.

This look is here to stay, and it's already cementing its place as a modern wardrobe essential.

Bouclé is a textured fabric woven from looped yarns, giving it a distinctive, slightly nubby surface that feels soft yet structured.

Often associated with timeless elegance, it was popularised by Chanel in the 1950s and remains a staple in classic tailoring.

Today, bouclé has been reimagined in fresh, feminine cuts by modern labels - and it's become almost synonymous with Self-Portrait, whose signature bouclé dresses and jackets blend Parisian-inspired polish with contemporary detailing.

In short, it's a fabric that combines heritage charm with modern versatility, making it a go-to for both runway designers and royal wardrobes

Self-Portrait was founded in 2013 by Malaysian-born, London-based designer Han Chong.

Known for blending high-end design with accessible pricing, Chong often incorporates bouclé into his collections, making it a key part of the brand's identity.

The fabric's rich texture and structure allow for sharp tailoring that still feels soft and feminine, while its versatility makes it ideal for creating pieces that transition seamlessly from day to evening.

This approach aligns seamlessly with Princess Kate, who champions British labels that offer a luxury look and feel without the regal price tag, making her iconic high-style accessible to a wider audience.

Princess Kate first wore Self-Portrait's signature bouclé-and-chiffon dress at the Hold Still reception in 2021, pairing the tailored bouclé bodice with a flowing pleated skirt for a look that was both regal and modern.

Since then, she has worn their designs on repeat, holding a selection of Self-Portrait bouclé pieces in her closet for major royal engagements, including the Platinum Jubilee, VE Day celebrations, and the Order of the Garter service.

Most recently, she debuted a custom white bouclé Self-Portrait dress at Wimbledon 2025, reaffirming her role in making the fabric one of fashion's most sought-after trends.