Princess Catherine’s Iconic Houndstooth Zara Dress – Her Best High Street Fashion Moments!
Catherine’s Impactful Fashion Moments
When Catherine steps out in a high street piece, the world takes notice. Katherine and Prince William visited Aberfan to commemorate the 57th anniversary of the 1966 disaster, where a colliery spoil tip collapsed onto a school and homes, claiming 144 lives, including 116 children. The couple toured the Memorial Garden, laid wreaths, and met with survivors and families of victims, many of whom shared personal stories of loss and resilience. William gave a heartfelt speech acknowledging the community’s enduring strength, while Katherine listened intently, offering quiet empathy—a gesture widely praised for its sincerity.
A Fashion Statement with Meaning
Katherine’s green plaid Zara midi dress, priced at £59.99, became the focal point of the visit. The dress, featuring a subtle checkered pattern, a belted waist, and a modest neckline, was layered under a sleek black coat by Hobbs. She paired it with black tights, knee-high boots, and a small black handbag, opting for minimal jewelry. The look was deliberately understated, reflecting the somber tone of the event.
The dress sold out within hours of her appearance, a phenomenon dubbed the “Catherine Effect.” Fashion critics noted how the princess balanced affordability with sensitivity—a rare feat in royal dressing, where custom-made luxury outfits often dominate. The choice of Zara, a high street brand, signaled humility and relatability, aligning with the emotional weight of the visit. Katherine’s ability to elevate everyday fashion while honoring a tragic historical moment cemented her status as a style icon with emotional intelligence.
A Day of Cultural Engagement
In February 2020, the Prince and Princess of Wales embarked on a daylong tour of Bradford, a city celebrated for its cultural diversity. They visited the Sikh temple Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara, where they participated in a traditional langar service, helping prepare meals and engaging with volunteers. Later, they stopped at St. Stevens CE Primary School, interacting with students and discussing initiatives supporting mental health and inclusivity.
Katherine recycled a black-and-white houndstooth Zara dress, which she had first worn during a 2019 visit to Northern Ireland. The fit-and-flare design, with its tailored waist and knee-length silhouette, was styled with black suede ankle boots, a black clutch, and a single gold necklace. The monochrome palette and classic pattern conveyed professionalism while remaining approachable—a deliberate choice for a day of hands-on community engagement.
Blending Affordable Fashion with Royal Elegance
In January 2025, Catherine once again blended affordable fashion with royal elegance. During her visit to Tŷ Hafan, a children’s hospice in Wales, the Princess of Wales dazzled in a houndstooth dress from Zara that she had bought four years ago. Despite being an affordable piece, Katherine elevated it with a tailored ivory coat by Chris Kery, refined accessories, and Russell & Bromley heels.
Her love for the houndstooth pattern reflects British tradition, a style also favored by Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II.
