Catherine, the Princess of Wales, paid tribute to her late mother‑in‑law’s fashion while cheering on England’s Red Roses at a Women’s Rugby World Cup group‑stage match on Saturday.
The princess, attending in her capacity as patron of the Rugby Football Union, wore a black Alexander McQueen blazer with matching wide‑leg trousers and a Cascade ruffle blouse by Knatchbull. She carried a Chanel handbag and wore a pair of Cartier earrings. Observers noted the ensemble’s similarity to a 1986 look worn by Diana, Princess of Wales — a white ruffled blouse beneath a black trouser suit — and several royal watchers called the outfit an intentional homage.
Design details of Diana’s 1986 suit have been discussed in previous profiles of the late princess. Jasper Conran, who designed Diana’s trouser suit, told The Telegraph that the former princess was moving away from formal ballgowns in that period and experimenting with sleeker, more tailored looks. "There was a moment when she never wanted to see a full skirt again — she wanted to be slinkier," he said.
Online reaction to Catherine’s appearance included both comparisons to Diana’s archive looks and praise for the modern interpretation. Some social media users described the outfit as an affectionate nod to Diana; others called it elegant and understated.
Catherine has previously referenced Diana in her wardrobe choices and jewellery selections. She has worn Diana’s sapphire engagement ring on many occasions and has borrowed a pair of Diana’s earrings for commemorative events, most recently at a VE Day service in Westminster Abbey in May.
The match at Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium marked the final game of the group stage for England, who sit atop their pool after emphatic wins in earlier rounds, including a 69‑7 victory over the United States and a 92‑3 win against Samoa. England are among the tournament favourites alongside defending champions New Zealand and Canada.
The princess has taken an active public role supporting rugby since assuming the RFU patronage in 2022, a role previously held by Prince Harry before he relinquished official royal patronages amid his decision to step back from senior royal duties. Catherine, who grew up in a family that followed rugby, has been a frequent spectator at matches and a visible advocate for women’s sport.
Palace statements in recent weeks show both Catherine and the Prince of Wales sending messages of support to national teams. The couple have also been visible at other sporting occasions: Catherine is patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club and a regular at Wimbledon, and she has taken part in a range of sporting engagements in recent years.
At the Brighton match, the princess appeared in bright spirits as she cheered from the stands, and her sartorial choice added another moment in which contemporary royal fashion invoked the legacy of Diana without overshadowing the sporting spectacle on the field.