The British summer is filled with royal traditions, and after Royal Ascot, few events are as eagerly anticipated or as charming as the annual Royal Charity Polo Cup. On July 10, 2026, the lush grounds of the Guards Polo Club in Egham, England, welcomed the Prince and Princess of Wales as they attended the charity polo tournament. As always, whenever the royal couple steps out in public, attention quickly turns to Kate Middleton. Staying true to her polished yet effortless sense of style, the Princess of Wales debuted a new printed dress that perfectly captured relaxed summer elegance. The look also included a subtle nod to Princess Diana.
Kate Middleton Debuts a Pastoral Gingham Dress for the Polo
© UK Press via Getty ImagesFor the charity sporting event, Kate chose a dress that perfectly embodies the spirit of summer. The black-and-white gingham design features an exceptionally flattering silhouette, with a classic neckline framed by wide straps, a fitted bodice, and a defined waist that accentuates the figure before flowing into a full, mid-calf skirt. That graceful, airy cut gives the dress beautiful movement as she walks across the grass, striking the ideal balance between comfort and sophistication.
© Samir Hussein/WireImage
© Samir Hussein/WireImageThe designer behind the look was no coincidence. Once again, Kate championed British fashion by wearing Temperley London. Founded in 2000 by Alice Temperley, the label quickly established itself as one of Britain’s leading luxury fashion houses, known for romantic, timeless designs with just a touch of bohemian flair. Over the years, the brand has expanded into several collections, with Temperley London remaining its signature line.
© Samir Hussein/WireImageKate Middleton’s long-standing relationship with Alice Temperley’s designs has become something of a fashion love story. It dates back to December 2010, when the then-fiancée of Prince William wore the label to a charity event in what was her first official appearance after announcing their engagement.
© Getty ImagesOne of Her Favorite British Designers
Since then, the Princess of Wales has repeatedly turned to Temperley London for everything from glamorous evening events and red carpets to more relaxed daytime engagements. Her loyalty to the brand speaks for itself: today, her wardrobe includes more than 30 Temperley London pieces and accessories. With her latest appearance in Egham, she adds another to the collection while once again demonstrating her support for British fashion.
© Getty ImagesA Nod to Princess Diana, Who Made This Pattern Fashionable Again 40 Years Ago
© Getty ImagesIt will probably come as no surprise that the outfit also pays tribute to her husband’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. Forty years ago, Diana helped bring this charming countryside-inspired pattern back into the spotlight.
© Tim Graham Photo Library via GetThe print was first popularized by Brigitte Bardot, who wore gingham for her wedding dress, while Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn helped cement its appeal during the 1960s with gingham capri pants paired with ballet flats. Two decades later, however, Princess Diana gave the pattern new life when she posed in the gardens of Highgrove wearing the now-iconic look. Since then, gingham has never really gone out of style—it simply keeps reinventing itself.
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