Kate Middleton given unexpected new title

Kate Middleton has added a new title to her name, and this time it has nothing to do with the Royal Family. At 43, the Princess of Wales already holds an impressive list of official styles connected to her marriage to Prince William. These include Princess of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall, Duchess of Cambridge, and in Scotland, Duchess of Rothesay, with her formal address remaining Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales.
But her latest recognition comes from the world of fashion rather than royalty. British Vogue has named Kate as one of its most influential style figures, awarding her a title that reflects her impact far beyond palace walls.
British Vogue crowns an “Eternal Influencer”
On December 11, British Vogue unveiled its list of The 50 Best Dressed Brits of 2025. The ranking was divided into several categories celebrating different corners of British style, ranging from screen stars and musicians to industry insiders and fashion risk takers.
At the very top of the list was a category called The Eternal Influencer, and Kate was placed front and center. Vogue’s editors explained that any serious discussion about British fashion would be incomplete without acknowledging women whose style has shaped national taste over time. Despite each woman having a very distinct wardrobe, they share a lasting and unmistakable influence.
Kate’s inclusion was widely expected. Her fashion choices are known to have a measurable economic impact, often referred to as the “Kate effect.” According to estimates reported by The Times, outfits worn by the Princess of Wales can generate around one billion pounds a year for the British fashion industry. Her influence has been so powerful that at times she has deliberately avoided naming designers during public appearances, choosing instead to keep attention on the causes she supports.

Fashion power with real-world impact
Kate was listed alongside some of Britain’s most enduring style icons, including Alexa Chung, Sienna Miller, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, and Victoria Beckham. Vogue highlighted that Kate’s influence is quieter than some, but no less transformative. A single appearance can elevate a brand overnight, and designers are reportedly watching closely ahead of the spring, when she is expected to issue her first Royal Warrants.
That detail carries particular significance. Royal Warrants are official marks of recognition given to companies that regularly supply goods or services to the Royal Household. While they are traditionally granted by the monarch, Kate was given the authority to issue them in mid 2025. This made her the first Princess of Wales in a century to hold that power, further cementing her role not only as a royal figure, but as a tastemaker whose choices carry lasting influence.
In a world where trends change quickly, British Vogue’s message was clear. Kate Middleton’s style is not about fleeting fashion moments. It is about consistency, restraint, and an influence that shows no sign of fading.