Kate Middleton Bundles Up in Catherine Walker for Ireland Trip

Kate Middleton revived one of Princess Diana’s favorite London-based labels on Friday for her trip to Belfast in Northern Ireland alongside Prince William.

Returning to her muted autumnal color palette, Middleton wore a bespoke open coat in black courtesy of Catherine Walker. The late British designer, who died at the age of 65 in September 2010, was among Princess Diana’s favorites for dresses and more. So much so, in fact, that Walker supplied more than 1,000 pieces to the late royal’s wardrobe.

Walker’s relationship with the late Princess Diana began mere months after the royal married now-King Charles III in July 1981. The designer and British royal’s relationship lasted until Princess Diana’s death at the age of 36 in August 1997.

Princess Diana memorably wore a pale blue halterneck dress by Walker at a dinner hosted by Vanity Fair magazine at the Serpentine Gallery in Hyde Park in London in June 1995.

Middleton, who most recently wore a Catherine Walker coatdress in March for the 2026 Commonwealth Day Service, has continued to showcase pieces by the British designer throughout her royal wardrobe as well, simultaneously honoring her late mother-in-law and paying homage to the British designer.

Along with her Catherine Walker coat, Middleton wore a Knatchbull ruffle blouse in ivory, which was paired with a high-waisted wool-blend midi skirt in gray, black and white colorways, acting as a unifying garment for the blouse and coat.

Other pieces for Middleton’s Belfast look included a set of Gianvito Rossi pumps in black leather, along with a green Mulberry top-handle handbag. Finishing touches included a Ralph Lauren belt and a set of delicate Cartier hoop earrings.

Kate Middleton joined her husband Prince William on Friday for a visit to The Commons, which is a project that will transform a church at the heart of the Ormeau Road community into a self-sustaining community center for all, in Belfast, Northern Ireland.