Princess Catherine of Wales | Source: Getty Images
Princess Catherine Sparks Buzz Over Footwear Choice Despite Museum's Dress Code Advice
A royal appearance, a pair of heels, and a dress code advisory — the Princess of Wales's latest public appearance left more than art on display.
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On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Princess Catherine visited the newly opened V&A East Storehouse, a public museum facility in East London. Dressed in a royal blue suit, she appeared composed and stylish.
However, her choice of footwear — black Gianvito Rossi suede pumps, valued at $795 — conflicted with the venue's guidance. The V&A East Storehouse, a new branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum, invites the public to explore its extensive collection in a working storage environment.
According to the museum's website, the facility allows visitors to get "closer than ever before" to archived objects and the behind-the-scenes processes of conservation and curation.
Its centerpiece, the Weston Collections Hall, spans three levels with walkways constructed from metal grid flooring and bordered by glass balustrades. A section of glass flooring reveals views of the Agra Colonnade and lower storage levels.
Given these architectural features, the museum advises, "We recommend wearing practical clothing and flat shoes. The metal grid flooring is not suitable for stilettos or kitten heels.
Hence, the public's response to Princess Catherine's look varied. On social media, some criticized the footwear choice as dismissive of the museum's request. One asked, "What's up with her feet," while a second wrote, "Typical, a rule for everyone else but not Catherine."
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A third added, "I think that's very disrespectful. If anywhere [sic] asks you not to wear heels to protect the floor you should follow the rules. Anybody else would not have been allowed in."
Another critic stated, "She couldn't memorize an 8 second speech which included mostly 3 letter words. You thought Ms. Lazy would read the rules of the museum [sic]?"
Others noted the advisory's wording, pointing out, "So it's only advice but not a rule." Some directed criticism toward the building itself, "They should improve the flooring."
Someone else remarked, "Not a fan, she's so full of herself & has been rude & unwelcoming to Harry & Megan right from the beginning of their relationship, they are the real deal, have done humanitarian work in other countries, he served 2 tours in his country's military,glad he got away from the royals [sic]."
In contrast, others voiced support. An admirer gushed, "I love how elegant she is and how she advocates for amazing causes." Another praised her style, "Now,this is true class and style 👏."
While no formal comment was issued regarding the Princess's heels, Tristram Hunt, director of the V&A, addressed the matter lightheartedly. Speaking to People following the visit, he said, "She is a pro! She dealt with that!"
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He went on to commend her engagement during the tour, "It went really well. She was really focused on the objects — it is impressive." Hunt added that the Princess brought impressive energy and focus to the visit, noting her continued passion for creativity, craftsmanship, and design. "It was wonderful to be able to host her," he said.
The visit reflected Catherine's long-standing interest in the arts; she earned a degree in art history from the University of St Andrews in 2005. Here's a closer look at her standout ensemble as captured throughout the museum tour.
1.
Princess Catherine smiles warmly during her museum visit on June 10, 2025, wearing a royal blue blazer, bold gold chain necklace, and blue drop earrings. Her soft waves and natural makeup complement the confident, polished tone of her appearance.
2.
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Princess Catherine is seen arriving at the V&A East Storehouse in East London on June 10, 2025, wearing a tailored royal blue suit and statement necklace as she prepares to tour the museum's innovative new public collections facility.
3.
Princess Catherine shares a bright smile near the entrance of the V&A East Storehouse. She wears a tailored blue suit and white top, with gold and sapphire jewelry adding a refined touch to her modern, understated look.
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4.
Gesturing mid-conversation, Princess Catherine appears animated and engaged. She’s dressed in a cobalt blue blazer, gold chain necklace, and blue earrings, with her sleek hairstyle and warm expression highlighting her presence.
5.
Focused and curious, Princess Catherine leans in to observe a camera setup. Her blue blazer and matching earrings stand out against the minimalist space, while her sleek hair and accessories complete a composed, modern look.
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6.
Princess Catherine smiles softly in a tailored blue suit and white top. Her posture is upright, hands gently clasped, radiating calm confidence as she stands inside the V&A East Storehouse.
7.
Sharing a laugh with Tristram Hunt, Princess Catherine appears relaxed and engaged. Her expression is open and genuine, adding warmth to her polished ensemble of a navy suit and gold accessories.
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8.
Princess Catherine reaches out for a handshake with a calm, focused look. Her tailored blue suit and composed stance convey elegance and attentiveness in a formal setting.
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With a polite nod and steady eye contact, Princess Catherine greets an official at the V&A East Storehouse. Her posture is graceful, her smile subtle, and her sapphire earrings add a refined accent to her outfit.
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10.
In mid-conversation, Princess Catherine gestures with intent, her long waves subtly shifting. The sharp lines of her blazer contrast with her naturally expressive presence.
11.
Princess Catherine flashes a subtle smile as she listens closely, her head tilted slightly in an active, receptive posture. Her bright expression and soft gaze lend a thoughtful air to this candid moment.
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12.
Laughing freely, Princess Catherine radiates charm and approachability. Her posture is relaxed, her suit crisp, and her natural expression captures a rare, candid burst of lightness at the museum on June 10, 2025.
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Princess Catherine examines a historic red riding habit alongside curators Oriole Cullen and Kate Parsons. Focused and engaged, she gestures thoughtfully while discussing the garment’s fine detailing and textile preservation.
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14.
Princess Catherine wore a royal blue tailored suit with a white top and sleek black heels. She accessorized with a gold chain necklace, drop earrings, and styled her hair in soft waves, creating a polished, elegant look for the museum visit.
15.
In the storage hall, Princess Catherine speaks with V&A Director Tristram Hunt in front of a large mural. Her hands raised in conversation, she appears animated and attentive, dressed in a sharp blue suit and suede heels.
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16.
Flanked by Tim Reeve, Tristram Hunt, Minouche Shafik, and Gus Casely-Hayford, Princess Catherine poses for a group photo in the Weston Collections Hall. Her relaxed stance and composed smile reflect the professional, collaborative tone of the day.
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Standing over a glass floor, Princess Catherine observes the display below with fellow museum leaders. Her gaze is downward, posture careful, suggesting both curiosity and caution as they explore the vertical exhibit space.
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18.
Amid a busy backdrop of visitors and staff, Princess Catherine walks with Tristram Hunt inside the V&A East Storehouse. Dressed in a royal blue suit, she appears composed and attentive as she tours the striking multi-level gallery space.
19.
Princess Catherine tours the upper levels of the museum with Tristram Hunt. The two converse while surrounded by archived objects. Her body language is open, and her stride confident as she engages with the venue’s modern layout.
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20.
Seen from a distance, Princess Catherine walks beside Tristram Hunt through the gallery mezzanine. With shelves of art and artifacts lining the path, she listens closely, her expression composed and observant.
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