After almost seven weeks out of the public eye, Prince William and Kate Middleton returned this first Thursday of September with a visit to the Natural History Museum in London, marking their return to official duties.
Their last public engagement was at the end of July, before their traditional retreat to Scotland, where they spent time at Balmoral Castle and were seen with their children attending the usual Sunday service at Crathie Kirk nearby. Back then, the Princess of Wales already looked noticeably blonder, although the glimpse came only in fleeting images taken through a car window. Now, heading into autumn, she confirms the blonde locks as her new look.
This transformation has been subtle yet striking, influenced by summer, and her hair now features a sunlit tone that complements her usual elegance. Still, every change in the Princess of Wales’s style, no matter how small, draws attention. Perhaps that’s why she paired it with one of her most classic work staples: a tweed blazer. The visit was to learn about the technology the museum is using for conservation and biodiversity research, a subject Kate has shown strong interest in recently through various nature-focused initiatives. The day ended in the rain, just as the Princess stepped out into the gardens to greet a group of schoolchildren.
With this event, the Wales family is returning to their normal life after spending time in Scotland and enjoying a private holiday with Prince George (12), Princess Charlotte (10), and Prince Louis (7), who have also returned to school. It is an especially meaningful year for George, as he begins his final year of primary school (Year 6) in the UK. TThis means that next summer, George will have to move on to a new school, with Eton College already being considered. The choice of Eton College makes sense not only because it is close to their home, but also because both his father, Prince William, and his uncle, Prince Harry, studied there. Another exciting change for the heir’s family is that by the end of this year they’ll be moving into what they call their 'forever home,' Forest Lodge.
The Prince and Princess of Wales have stayed present in the public eye. Over the past seven weeks, they kept a balance by remaining visible without public appearances and without giving up their time off. They managed this by sharing short videos on social media that showcased new projects or updates on ongoing ones. Until now, that time has been fully their own. Their return comes the same week their children go back to Lambrook School in Berkshire, a choice that reflects the promise they made after Kate’s illness to put family first whenever possible. While their children are still young, they are holding on to that time, knowing that once it is their turn to take the throne, much of their schedule will inevitably be dedicated to state duties, which for now rest mostly with King Charles III.