As Patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, the Princess of Wales is one of the most recognisable faces in Wimbledon's Royal Box. But during Sunday's men's singles final, it wasn't just her appearance that caught the attention of royal watchers.
Kate, 44, looked elegant in a green Emilia Wickstead dress, which she paired with a coordinating wide-brimmed hat.
The accessory stood out because hats are rarely seen in the Royal Box, where guests are generally advised to avoid wearing them so they don't obstruct the view of those seated behind.
The Royal Box rule
So, did the Princess break Wimbledon's dress code? Not quite. While hats are discouraged as part of Royal Box etiquette, there is no formal ban.
© GettyInstead, the guidance asks guests to avoid wearing them where possible, although exceptions are often made, particularly in hot weather when extra sun protection is needed.
The Championships' official dress guidance states: "Protocol - dress is smart, suits/jacket and tie, etc. Ladies are asked not to wear hats, as they tend to obscure the vision of those seated behind them."
© Getty ImagesKate's choice was perhaps unsurprising given the conditions on Centre Court, where temperatures reached around 29°C during Sunday's final.
How George and Charlotte beat the heat at Centre Court
Many spectators took measures to stay cool throughout the afternoon. Despite the heat, Prince William and Prince George adhered to the Royal Box dress code in suits and ties, with George spotted cooling off using a handheld white fan and a bottle of water.
© GettyThe Prince and Princess of Wales, along with Prince George and Princess Charlotte, also wore sunglasses at various points during the match.
George and Charlotte were additionally seen wearing Wimbledon-provided hats, identifiable by their signature green and purple hatbands.
Kate, however, opted for her own wide-brimmed hat, which she wore for much of the final while watching the action unfold from Centre Court.
