Kate Middleton's Best Hairstyles

There are quite a few reasons Kate Middleton is able to spark headlines and pique the public's interest on a regular basis. Along with her official duties as a senior royal, which involve countless appearances around the world, and her roles within her family, which includes three children, she's evolved into a style icon over the years. Not only does the Duchess of Cambridge know how to pick a perfectly put-together outfit for every occasion, but she also knows how to pair that with the ideal accessories, makeup, and hairstyle.

As for the latter, Kate's hair tends to be so stunning that fans are usually eager to see how she's styled it and want to know how she achieves such a magnificent mane. Well, it turns out that a lot of it has to do with what's become known as the "Chelsea Blow Dry," according to People. Richard Ward, who acts as Kate's hairdresser, explained, "It's not just about Kate's hair — it is beautifully finished, frizz-free, shiny hair ... It's a hairstyle that is well finished."

While that has become what People deems Kate's "signature look," she definitely tends to change things up when she pleases — like when she's supposedly trying to distract the media from a pregnancy or having her official 40th birthday portrait taken. We've taken the time to track down and highlight some of Kate's best hairstyles, and there's no doubt you'll adore each and every one!

When Kate Middleton and Prince William announced they were engaged in November 2010, Kate chose a look that was elegant from head-to-toe. That included a hairstyle that suited the occasion, as well as both her role as a future member of the royal family and the potential future queen.

There's no doubt that Kate Middleton is famous for the stunning length of her hair that's usually worn down. However, for formal occasions, she often opts for updos, particularly an intricate chignon, like this striking style that she wore in 2012 while attending an event at the Royal Albert Hall.

When Kate Middleton embraced thick, bouncy, and casual curls during a trip to Tavanipupu Island in 2012, her hair was still absolutely gorgeous and totally enviable. Just look at that volume!

The British holiday Remembrance Day is always a serious occasion and the royal family is sure to show their respects each year. Kate Middleton definitely chose an appropriate look for that reason in November 2013 when she wore a hat with long ringlets.

Whether you call them "bangs" or know them as "fringe," Kate Middleton certainly had that style in September 2015. Reaching down to the top of her cheekbones, the side bangs helped draw attention to Kate's eyes.

Kate Middleton knows when it's best for her to look professional yet relatable. In August 2016, she appeared in a video that promoted mental health while her hair was worn down with some strands pulled back. While it's a style that many people wear, of course Kate's hair was perfect and featured an extra twist in the back.

We may never see Kate Middleton with a pixie cut like the late Princess Diana, however, she has tried out somewhat shorter hair. Back in July 2017, Kate was spotted in Poland with a style that's shorter than she often has and boasted big, bouncy curls below her ears.

Kate Middleton wore her hair down for Prince George's christening and her hair up when Princess Charlotte was christened. When it was Prince Louis' turn to be christened in 2018, Kate again opted for an updo — or a low chignon, to be exact — with a gorgeous headband that featured pearls and a flowery accent.

At the beginning of 2021, Kate Middleton was clearly feeling the need for a new hairstyle. That's apparently why she opted for a straight style with one side kept tucked behind her ear. The style was so flattering, that she kept it around until spring.

In May 2021, Kate Middleton was still showing up with her relatively straight hairstyle. However, after months of letting her hair grow (or adding extensions?) during the coronavirus pandemic, the style was all about her lusciously lengthy strands that were definitely a few inches longer than we've seen in the past.

As seen above, Phoebe Waller-Bridge showed up to the "No Time to Die" premiere in September 2021 with hair that was sleek and slick. Kate Middleton, on the other hand, appeared with a fancy updo that was looped and pinned in just the right spots and truly suited her regal gown.

Just two days before Christmas in 2021, Kate Middleton appeared in a video while delivering a special holiday message. With hair that was showing how much it had grown throughout the year (or, again, possibly featured extensions), it absolutely glowed while hanging down in almost-golden waves.