At a Glance
- The Princess of Wales and her assistant private secretary wore matching blue tartan outfits during a visit to Scotland on Jan. 20, 2026.
- Kate Middleton’s outfit was a bespoke navy tartan coat and ankle-length plaid jacket by Chris Kerr with Johnstons of Elgin wool.
- Natalie Barrows mirrored the look with a blue tartan coat, underscoring their close working relationship.
Why it matters: The coordinated outfits highlight the Princess’s return to public duties after her cancer treatment and showcase the understated fashion choices that signal royal solidarity.
Intro paragraph: The Princess of Wales and her assistant private secretary, Natalie Barrows, matched in navy tartan during a joint visit to Scotland on Jan. 20, 2026. The unexpected fashion statement, featuring a bespoke blue tartan coat and an ankle-length plaid jacket by Chris Kerr with Johnstons of Elgin wool, underscored the Princess’s return to public engagements after her cancer treatment and highlighted the close partnership between Kate and her aide.
A Royal Fashion Moment
During the walkabout in Stirling, the Princess wore an ankle-length plaid jacket in a blue hue reminiscent of the Scottish flag-a possible flag-dressing nod. Her assistant, Natalie Barrows, also wore a blue tartan coat, creating a striking visual alignment rarely seen in royal outings. The matching outfits were a subtle yet powerful signal of unity and professionalism.
Matching Outfits in a Scottish Setting
The visit took place in Stirling, Scotland, where the Princess and Barrows were photographed accepting flowers from a well-wisher in fan footage shared on Instagram. The choice of navy tartan aligns with traditional Scottish patterns and reflects a respect for local heritage. The outfits were described as “bespoke” and “low-key,” fitting the understated style that often accompanies royal appearances.
- The Princess’s jacket was crafted by Chris Kerr, a designer known for blending contemporary silhouettes with classic Scottish tartan.
- The coat worn by Natalie Barrows was a matching navy tartan, reinforcing the visual cohesion of the pair.
- Both outfits featured muted tones, avoiding bright colors that could distract from the ceremony.
Barrows: The Behind-Scenes Secretary
Natalie Barrows has worked for the Princess of Wales since 2017, first joining the household as an assistant private secretary when Kate was the Duchess of Cambridge. Her job involves arranging the Princess’s schedule, coordinating correspondence, and supporting Kate on royal engagements. Though she typically remains discreet, her presence during the Stirling visit was a rare public display of the duo’s close working relationship.
Key responsibilities of the assistant private secretary include:
- Coordinating daily appointments and travel itineraries.
- Managing official correspondence and communications.
- Providing logistical support during public engagements.
Kate Middleton’s Cancer Journey
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 2024 | Announced cancer treatment |
| September 2024 | Completed chemotherapy |
| January 2025 | In remission, resumed work |
| Jan. 20, 2026 | Public engagement in Scotland |
During her treatment, the Princess worked from home at Adelaide Cottage, staying connected to royal initiatives while undergoing care. The support from staffers like Barrows was crucial during this period.
- The Princess disclosed her diagnosis in March 2024, citing an undisclosed form of cancer.
- By September 2024, she announced completion of chemotherapy.
- In January 2025, she declared remission and a return to a more regular schedule.
- The 2026 visit demonstrated her resilience and commitment to public duties.
The Significance of the Tartan
Tartan is deeply rooted in Scottish culture, and wearing it during a royal visit signals respect for the host nation. The matching navy tartan outfits may also serve as a subtle nod to the Scottish flag, reinforcing the Princess’s commitment to her duties in the United Kingdom. The coordinated look emphasizes the seamless collaboration between the Princess of Wales and her aide, a partnership that has endured for nearly a decade.
Important cultural points:
- Tartan patterns are traditionally associated with Scottish clans and regions.
- The navy hue aligns with the colors of the Scottish flag, adding symbolic meaning.
- The understated design reflects the Princess’s preference for low-profile attire during public appearances.
Key Takeaways
- The Princess of Wales and Natalie Barrows’ matching navy tartan outfits during a Scottish visit marked a rare public display of their close partnership.
- The outfits reflected a respectful nod to Scottish heritage and the Princess’s return to public duties after cancer treatment.
- Barrows’ role as assistant private secretary has been integral to the Princess’s schedule and public engagements since 2017.
Quote: “This is someone who stared down the abyss,” said Amanda Foreman, a royal historian, reflecting on the Princess’s fortitude.
