The transition of Princess Catherine’s appearance—from past years to the present day—reveals physical changes that took place ahead of her brave disclosure about her health. A visual comparison of earlier and more recent engagements captures a discernible shift, offering a prelude to her courageous announcement.
With the recent revelation of the Duchess of Cambridge’s health challenges, a look back through photographs reveals the subtle signs of her journey, showcasing her remarkable poise amidst personal trials. The photographic timeline reveals gradual shifts in her physique that may have been overlooked by many.
Back in November 2021, the Duchess’s visit to Nower Hill High School showcased her in resplendent red with a fuller face and the kind of buoyant smile and rosy cheeks characteristic of good health and spirits. She was seen with thick, flowing locks and a delightful sparkle in her eyes as she participated in a neuroscience class focused on early childhood development.
Later that day, her smile was just as infectious, and her stance was confident. The Princess was not just a picture of royal poise but the epitome of a public figure deeply immersed in the cause of education and well being.
On February 21 last year, the Princess visited Oxford House Nursing Home. Donning a navy turtleneck paired with a tailored coat, she maintained her regal charm and the plumpness of her visage which was complemented by sapphire jewels.
However, subtle differences in Princess Catherine’s appearance began surfacing in late 2023. During the commemoration of Queen Elizabeth II’s life in September of last year, aside from her attire which was practical and suitable for her visit to the RNLI Life Boat Station, what draws attention is that the physical changes in her face were becoming more apparent.
She appeared remarkably skinnier than before and her once healthy glow which had been so prominent, looked slightly diminished. Additionally, the contours of her face seemed more defined, with the earlier roundness of her visage giving way to subtler lines.
In the earnest atmosphere of a mental health podcast on September 19, 2023, though the Princess’s engagement with critical social issues was evident, so was the transformation in her features. The studio lighting accentuated her more pronounced cheekbones and the deep bags beneath her eyes.
Her attendance at the National Service of Remembrance on November 12, 2023, presented her in a different light once again. Photos of the somber occasion that called for a dignified appearance make it hard to ignore the continued changes in her weight that had become apparent.
During the “Shaping Us” National Symposium event at the Design Museum on November 15 of the same year—where the Princess’s slim figure was gracefully draped in purple—the acute sharpness of her facial features and her very thin frame can be seen as a silent testament to her health journey.
Similarly, though the Princess’s visit to Evelina London Children’s Hospital on December 5 was met with a heartwarming reception, it was a stark contrast to her once fuller visage as she appeared notably thinner while devoting her time to making a difference in the lives of children.
These snapshots are more than mere historical records; they chronicle the quiet yet significant transformation of a beloved public figure. Princess Catherine’s evolving appearance through each photograph subtly indicates what she may have been going through personally and presents a reality that brings a new depth of meaning to her unwavering public service.
Read another article that discusses public reactions to Princess Catherine’s appearance after a photo of her had been shared online by a media outlet.
On November 12, British Vogue released a photo of Kate Middleton during an appearance on Remembrance Sunday. She and other senior members of the Royal Family laid wreaths for the occasion.
In the photo, a straight-faced Princess of Wales wears a black hat with an ornate black detail. She paired the look with a black outfit adorned with the signature British red poppies worn as a brooch.
Middleton wore pearl earrings and understated makeup to finish the look. However, fans were not focused on her outfit or accessories. Instead, they were focused solely on the Princess of Wales’ face.
One fan commented, saying that they thought there was a filter on the photo because there was no way she looked 41 years old. Another asked:
“Why does she look so old?”
Many agreed with that sentiment, and one added that she was not happy, and it showed on her face. While some talked about how badly she was aging, others joked that she had missed her Botox appointment. Some even suggested she get a new skincare routine.
While many comments bash Middleton for her looks, others support her. One person said it was “refreshing” to see a famous figure aging without the help of Botox and fillers.
Another thought was that Middleton might look younger in reality and attributed the appearance to the unexpected proximity of the photography. The same person added that Middleton had no Botox or filler, and the people commenting on her appearance shouldn’t do so.
Others thought seeing someone freely being themselves in the public eye was pleasant. The person also said that nobody would look good expressing solemnity. One person stated: “This is just how she looks,” while another said, “she was a natural beauty.”
This isn’t the first time social media users have discussed Middleton’s face. In 2019, the Palace had to issue a statement saying she had not had baby Botox, as people speculated that she might have done.
A British plastic surgeon fueled the rumors by claiming that it was obvious Middleton used Botox. The same surgeon showed a before and after photo, noting that she had lines on her forehead in one picture and that she didn’t in the other.
An older story revealed that although Middleton had not had any plastic surgery, she had changed her makeup routine to help her look younger. When she turned 35, she switched to matte makeup and pink blush, with beauty experts saying it made her look more youthful.
They also noted that she stopped using rings of black eyeliner, giving her face a more natural look. In addition to her eyeliner, beauty experts have noticed the change in her brows, foundation, and overall skin care, noting that she would not need to try too hard because she has a clear complexion.
