We all know that Kate Middleton has a significant influence her loyal followers, from offering guidance on health crises to her lauded fashion sense. And it appears that her powers with the latter, dubbed the “Kate Effect” by retailers, might extend beyond those who read about her in the papers to those in her tight circle—that is, if photos from a recent visit to Scotland are any indication.
The Princess of Wales joined husband Prince William in Scotland last week, in a trip that coincidentally took them out of town just as estranged royal Prince Harry arrived for a court date in his latest case against the British media. Also with the royal couple was Natalie Barrows, who has worked for 19 years at Kate Middleton’s side. Barrows manages the future sovereign’s schedule, and accompanies her to the various appointments she is called upon to attend.
It’s no surprise that a working relationship that close might spill into one’s personal style. This was apparent during the Scotland trip, during which the prince and princess visited the National Curling Academy in Stirling, where they met with Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic curling teams ahead of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Then it was on to hand-weaving studio Radical Weavers, an educational charity that teaches the Scottish tartan tradition as it creates blankets and textiles for those in need.
On-theme as always, Middleton chose a tartan coat for the trip, one that she co-designed with the team of Johnstons of Elgin, a historic Scottish brand, and Savile Row tailor Chris Kerr. Middleton’s fashion homage to the country was echoed by Barrows, who, for the occasion, wore a very similar coat.
