Camilla's Stylist Breaks Silence on Kate Middleton's 'Polished and Understated' Hair Transition
Kate Middleton has long been celebrated as a fashion icon, with her style defined by elegance and modern polish. She effortlessly pairs her designer outfits with the perfect hairstyle, showcasing her exceptional sartorial acumen. During her surprise visit to Charing Cross Hospital on January 8, she displayed honey-toned highlights, a striking contrast to her usual brunette locks. Weighing in on the same, Queen Camilla's hairstylist, Jo Hansford, noted that it radiated sophistication and elegance, staying true to Middleton's signature style.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Hansford, who also holds the prestigious Royal Warrant for her service to Camilla, shared her assessment of Middleton's refreshed hairstyle. She said, "The depth and richness of her new shade beautifully enhance her skin tone and eye color, creating a look that feels both modern and timeless. Polished and understated, her hair radiates sophistication and elegance, which are hallmarks of Catherine's signature style." Middleton's soft brown honey highlights are often referred to as the 'Posh Mum Bronde,' a sophisticated in-between hue that blends brown and blonde tones, sitting between neither fully blonde nor brunette.
What sets the 'Posh Mum Bronde' hairstyle apart is its effortless, low-maintenance appeal. Unlike high-contrast blondes or brunettes, the shade grows out seamlessly, without harsh lines at the roots. Hansford continued, "Richer tones with added depth play a crucial role in creating balance and harmony with certain skin tones. Without these blended shades, going too light can leave the complexion looking overly pink or washed out." Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales has sported this shade all through December, most notably, during the traditional Christmas walk at Sandringham.
According to the royal hairdresser, the shade is both flattering and well-suited to women who want their hair to look impeccable without demanding constant upkeep and maintenance. Instead of opting for stark contrast, she advised asking a colorist for highlights that are first lifted and then carefully toned down. This approach helps avoid brassy or orangey fading, especially in hair that naturally warms, resulting in a balanced bronde finish. She noted, "While many clients choose lighter colors for practical reasons, such as easier maintenance, softer regrowth or grey blending, this look is a reminder that depth and dimension often deliver the most flattering, refined results."
Middleton first made headlines when she debuted blonde hair during an outing with Prince William at London's Natural History Museum. She drew attention after stepping away from her trademark brunette locks and revealing a softer, golden hue. During the visit, the couple spent time with pupils from Kender Primary School in New Cross, South London, who were studying near the garden pond. As rain began to fall, she was seen holding an umbrella over some of the children and encouraging their teacher to take them indoors. Since September, her hair has evolved toward a more polished and understated aesthetic, softly styled, subtly layered, and consistently immaculate, exemplifying her power dressing.