I’m furious at the onslaught over Kate’s new hairstyle and I wish people would think before they speak

The Prince and Princess of Wales have visited the Natural History Museum to learn more about the National Education Nature Park programme. The Princess officially debuted a new blonde look- a look that is highlighting a major problem online. 

Speculation that Kate had lightened her hair began in August when she was photographed inside a car on her way to church at Balmoral. Photos taken of the Princess then appeared to show her hair, which was styled up and under a hat, looking somewhat lighter than usual.

Her first engagement after the summer break confirmed that she’d gone ”bronde”, an on trend autumn hair colour and several shades lighter than her usual look.

The Princess’ hair was also longer than we’re used to seeing and she had left her natural wave in the end.

It was a striking departure for her and one she appeared to be enjoying. However, as soon as photographs were released for the couple’s engagement, social media comments immediately began flying about Kate’s new hair. 

There were online comments questioning whether or not the Princess of Wales had chosen to wear wearing a wig or a hair piece. In fact, it became a trending topic on Mumsnet, known for having its finger on the chatter.

However, it also highlights a sad situation. The public has not seemed to learn anything from the first months of 2024 when online rumours and manufactured “concern” forced the Prince and Princess to publicly share that she was undergoing cancer treatment, simply to halt continually snowballing rumours. 

Since then, Kate has completed chemotherapy and has spoken openly about her health, sharing far more than many would expect.

That hasn’t stopped cruel keyboard warriors taking to their anonymous portals to attack her over her appearance.

It is not anyone’s business whether or not Kate is wearing a wig. Simply being a public figure does not mean that her appearance should be continually criticised and torn apart. If your family member had undergone chemotherapy, would you like your workplace or the entire village gossiping about their appearance on a regular basis? Unlikely. 

The Prince and Princess of Wales both looked to be having a lot of fun at the Natural History Museum and were ready to get their hands dirty while exploring the ponds with local school children. That’s the point of this engagement. And while royal women, like many in the public eye, are regularly the focus of style scrutiny, there are lines that shouldn’t be crossed, especially when the motivating factor is venom.

Royals often face fair criticism on spending, workloads, and travel. However, continual snarking on physical appearance has no place in 2025- let’s leave that behind.