Princess Kate Returns to BAFTA After Years Away – One Detail Has Everyone Talking

The Princess of Wales stepped back onto the BAFTAs red carpet after time away from public life, drawing global attention. While her designer gown and royal jewels made headlines, it was a striking detail about her appearance that sparked a wave of debate online.

Princess Kate made her return to the British Academy Film Awards on February 22, 2026, marking her first appearance at the ceremony since 2023. Her presence at the awards event quickly drew public attention, both for her fashion choices and for renewed discussion about her time away from the spotlight.

She attended the event in a custom Gucci chiffon gown in shades of lilac. The design aligned with royal styling while remaining understated.

According to sources, she was the "picture of poise and professionalism as per, she deployed princess mode in a custom Gucci chiffon gown in shades of lilac that ticked the royal regalia box, without threatening to detract attention from the actors nominated for their efforts."

Other guests followed a similar fashion direction. Jessie Buckley wore Chanel, and Renate Reinsve chose Louis Vuitton. The overall tone on the red carpet reflected what was described as a "simple yet powerful fashion mandate."

The princess paired her gown with The Grenville Chandelier earrings and Queen Mary's diamond choker bracelet. She completed the look with a burgundy Prada Raso Minaudière bag and crystal Gianvito Rossi pumps.

Her presence also held broader significance. Vogue reported that "Kate's attendance (she last put in an appearance in 2023, but temporarily stepped back from the spotlight the following year while undergoing cancer treatment) always helps to highlight the BAFTAs as a front-page worthy cultural moment beyond the U.K."

The outlet also stated that while "Tinseltowners often skip this leg of the lengthy awards season trail (the weather likely has something to do with it), the princess's attendance solidifies its significance in the film industry calendar."

In the days following the event, images of the princess circulated widely on social media. Many people focused on her hairstyle, sparking mixed reactions across platforms.

On X, several critics questioned her hair. One person wrote, "OMG, The [sic] wig on her head weighs more than she does." Another added, "Her wigs make her look fake and plastic."

A third comment read, "The only thing that doesnt [sic] age is the wig." One more person asked, "Yeah...Why is [sic] suddenly wearing wigs? What happened? She used to have really great hair from what I remember."

On Instagram, other commenters praised her appearance. One person expressed, "The hair is gorgeous. Beautiful Kate." Another shared, "My god her hair 😍😍😍 [sic]."

Not all responses were positive. One commenter stated, "The long hair. She looks ridiculous." Meanwhile, another supporter penned, "she's so iconic love how they did her hair this feels so free 😍[sic]."

Princess Kate's return to the 2026 BAFTAs placed her back on one of the film industry's biggest stages after several years away. Her appearance drew global coverage, highlighted the event's cultural weight, and sparked widespread discussion online — proving that her presence continues to shape the conversation both on and off the red carpet.