Princess Kate Wears 'Busiest' Gown in Her Collection for St. David's Day

The Princess of Wales donned a bold red houndstooth dress by Alessandra Rich for a video marking the Welsh holiday.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, appeared in a new video alongside Prince William to mark St. David's Day, the feast day of Wales. For the occasion, Kate wore a bright red houndstooth dress by Alessandra Rich, which featured a V-shaped neckline, dramatic Chelsea collar, long sleeves, and a pleated skirt. The dress is a piece from Kate's archive that was last seen in 2021 when she visited the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Why it matters

Kate's choice to rewear this bold, experimental dress for the St. David's Day video is seen as a symbolic nod to her role representing Wales. The red color is one of the country's national colors, and the busy print is a departure from Kate's usual more minimalist style, showcasing a more playful and creative side of the royal.

The details

The shin-skimming Alessandra Rich dress features black buttons down the front for a retro look and a dropped waist. Kate accessorized the dress with Cartier's 'Trinity Earrings in White Gold, Yellow Gold & Rose Gold' for an extra glamorous touch, though her shoes were hidden from view. The princess also brushed up on her Welsh language skills to deliver the St. David's Day message.

  • Kate last wore the Alessandra Rich dress in 2021 when she visited the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
  • The St. David's Day video was filmed at Frogmore House on the Windsor Home Park estate.

The players

Kate Middleton

The Princess of Wales, formerly known as the Duchess of Cambridge, is the wife of Prince William and a member of the British royal family.

Prince William

The Prince of Wales, formerly known as the Duke of Cambridge, is the elder son of King Charles III and the late Princess Diana.

Alessandra Rich

An Italian fashion designer known for her retro-inspired, feminine designs, which are popular among the British royal family.

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What they’re saying

“Beyond the symbolism, the look also quietly communicates strength and confidence for the year ahead”

— Sian Clarke, Stylist (Hello! Magazine)

“It felt incredibly symbolic seeing the Princess of Wales choosing to wear red [one of the country's national colours] as a clear nod to her role representing Wales”

— Sian Clarke, Stylist (Hello! Magazine)

The takeaway

Kate's choice to rewear this bold, experimental dress for the St. David's Day video demonstrates her willingness to step outside her usual style comfort zone and embrace a more playful, creative look that pays homage to her role representing Wales. This move showcases her growing confidence and versatility as a member of the royal family.