Duchess Kate
The Duchess of Cambridge stuns on tour in Pakistan
KATE MIDDLETON MADE QUITE the sartorial statement as she stepped off the Royal Air Force plane Voyager after touching down in Pakistan with Prince William on October 14 for what their staff are calling their “most complex” royal tour yet.
Turning heads in a striking custom aqua ensemble by Catherine Walker, the duchess put her twist on the traditional shalwar kameez, a lightweight outfit that pairs a loose-fitting tunic top with pants. As royal watchers noted, she also paid homage to her late mother-in-law Princess Diana, who favoured Catherine Walker and wore a similar look when she visited Pakistan in 1996.
The royal parents, both 37, have left children Prince George, 6, Princess Charlotte, 4, and Prince Louis, 1, back home for the five-day tour during which they will focus on programs “which empower young people, and organisations that help ensure they have the best possible start in life”, said the couple’s spokesman. “The duke and duchess are looking forward to spending time meeting young Pakistanis and hearing more about their aspirations for the future.”
This royal tour heralds a significant step for the pair, who have asked to meet a wide cross-section of people – from children to business leaders, sports stars and “inspiring conservationists” – as they travel 1000km across Pakistan in a bid to help cement the link between the two countries and their people. “What happens in Pakistan matters on the streets of the UK,” a senior royal source tells WHO. “It is one of the most important relationships that the UK has.”
Along the way, the spotlight is certain to be on the duchess, who is developing a greater “regal” sense, several sources tell WHO, in preparation for one day becoming queen.
“I think we will see her branching out more,” tips Susan Kelley, editor and founder of fashion blog What Kate Wore, of what we can expect from the duchess, fashion-wise, on the tour. “She has become so much more confident in her role, she’s willing to take more risks.”