When it comes to setting the tone for occasion dressing, few do it quite like the Princess of Wales. The royal stepped out in a striking red dress by Alexander McQueen for her last appearance at Royal Ascot back in 2023, and fast forward to this summer, that very shade, now dubbed “Bright Tomato”, has been officially named the inaugural Colour of the Year in the Royal Ascot Handbook: The Art of Dressing Well. Coincidence? Perhaps. But for royal style watchers, the connection feels hard to ignore.
Cut with McQueen’s signature sharp tailoring, the dress featured a defined waist, softly structured shoulders and a fluid, mid-length skirt that moved beautifully as she walked. The red hue was unapologetically bold, offset by a tonal wide-brimmed hat by Phillip Treacy, heels by Jennifer Chamandi and Hermès’ Rio bag.
It also spoke to the royal’s long-standing relationship with the British fashion house, then under the creative direction of Sarah Burton. From her 2011 wedding dress to a wardrobe of precision-tailored coats and gowns, McQueen has become a trusted go-to for Kate’s most closely watched public moments.
Each year, the Royal Ascot dress code sets the benchmark for summer occasionwear, and this season, the introduction of a signature colour marks a fresh direction. Whether worn head-to-toe or as a statement accent, Bright Tomato is set to dominate in 2026 and racegoers are encouraged to embrace bold, joyful dressing on Ladies Day, which falls on 18 June.
So, did Princess Kate inspire this year’s standout shade? While Ascot credits trend forecasting and heritage influences for the decision, it’s undeniable that royal style moments have a way of shaping the wider fashion conversation.
Of course, it will also have been influenced by the spring/summer 2026 runways, where the striking shade featured prominently at Chanel, Celine, Proenza Schouler, Loewe and Stella McCartney.
Daniel Fletcher is Creative Director of the Royal Ascot Handbook for the third year running, with his vision brought to life by British supermodel and longtime attendee Erin O’Connor, who wears designs by Rebecca Vallance, Roksanda, Claire Mischevani and Edeline Lee.
It’s yet to be confirmed if Princess Kate will attend this summer, but if she does, I can’t wait to see what she’s wearing. One thing is certain, as the gates open this June, expect a sea of vibrant reds across the racecourse, celebrating confidence and the enduring influence of royal style.
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