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We’ve seen Kate Middleton in countless elegant braided updos, but her latest style couldn’t be easier to wear. The Princess of Wales stepped out for a full day of royal duties on January 27—and threw in a surprisingly simple side braid between stops.
Middleton kicked off her day of royal engagements wearing her signature cascading waves to visit the Family Action’s Children’s Trauma Therapy Service and the Wakefield Trinity Rugby League. But by her third stop of the day—a guided outdoor walk with mental health organization Mind Over Mountains—she had switched to an on-the-go style that jibes with all her winter layers.
For the rainy winter walk, Middleton wore a simple side braid (which appears to be a DIY moment!) secured with the plain elastic hairband we all keep on our wrists for emergencies. She also swapped her blazer for an olive jacket over her chunky turtleneck, switched to hiking boots, and paired the plait with a tweed newsboy cap and a knit scarf. (As someone who’s sick of choosing between my winter hat and my trusty claw clip, I’m taking notes.)
Flyaways and flatness, who?
While we love to swoon over Kate Middleton’s more elaborate hairstyles (especially those paired with tiaras and fascinators), a relatable royal hair moment feels even sweeter. Next time a wintry mix or your cozy layers take a toll on your perfect blowout, remind yourself that even princesses can relate—and copy Middleton’s stylish way to adapt.
Grace McCarty is the associate beauty editor at Glamour.