Remember the iconic 70s-inspired bangs Princess Kate rocked back in 2015? Well, nearly a decade later, we're still talking about them! While the Princess of Wales has largely stuck to her signature bouncy waves since 2020, that brief foray into retro fringe territory remains a standout moment in her style evolution. But here's where it gets interesting: Kate's 2015 bangs weren't just a fashion statement – they were a glimpse into her ability to experiment and modernize classic looks. At the 100 Women In Hedge Funds gala dinner, held at the Victoria and Albert Museum to support The Art Room, a charity close to her heart, Kate turned heads with her dramatic transformation. Her brunette hair, styled in shoulder-grazing layers, was paired with sweeping curtain bangs that fell gracefully to her cheekbones, reminiscent of Farrah Fawcett's iconic style. The look was completed with a subtle flick at the ends, adding volume and a touch of 70s glamour. And this is the part most people miss: Kate's choice of outfit – a tiered floral Erdem dress paired with statement earrings – perfectly complemented her hair, showcasing her ability to balance elegance with a hint of daring.
The Art Room, the charity benefiting from the gala, holds special significance for Kate. Now 43, she has long been a passionate advocate for mental health and child development. Alongside Prince William, she has championed the Heads Together campaign since 2016 and launched the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood in 2021, emphasizing the critical importance of a child's first five years. Kate's support for The Art Room, which uses art therapy to help vulnerable children build confidence, aligns perfectly with her broader philanthropic efforts.
Fast forward to 2023, and Kate's bangs made a comeback – but with a modern twist. During a visit to Outfit Moray, a Scottish charity providing outdoor learning programs for young people, the princess (known as the Duchess of Rothesay in Scotland) debuted a softer, more contemporary take on the fringe. Her bouncy waves were accented by curtain bangs that caught the wind, adding movement and a sense of effortless chic. But here's the controversial part: while some hail this look as her most polished yet, others argue that Kate's timeless style doesn’t need the drama of bangs.
Melanie Macleod, HELLO!'s Deputy Beauty and Lifestyle Editor, is firmly in the pro-bangs camp. “I’m a sucker for any kind of face-framing fringe,” she admits. “When Kate experiments with bangs, it always feels like a fresh update to her classic look. In 2015, she went bold with heavier bangs, but 2023’s softer approach was the winner for me.” Having personally sported a fringe, I can attest to its face-framing magic – but it’s not without its challenges. If Kate’s look inspires you, remember this: bangs demand commitment. Daily styling is a must to avoid the dreaded ‘which-way-do-they-go’ dilemma.
So, here’s the question: Do you think Princess Kate’s bangs are a timeless upgrade or a fleeting trend? And more importantly, would you dare to take the plunge and try them yourself? Let’s debate in the comments – I’m all ears!
