The Princess of Wales has put her seal of approval on this autumn’s biggest trend: tartan. During a trip to Northern Ireland with Prince William, Kate Middleton made a case for the Scottish heritage print that’s dominating the high street.
Stepping out in Belfast, the Royal couple met employers, frontline organisations and young people involved in the New Employment Opportunities Network (NEON). Striking a balance between fashion-forward and diplomacy dressing, Kate styled a smart ruffled Knatchbull blouse with an Emilia Wickstead tartan skirt and Gianvito Rossi pumps.
Tartan’s Royal Legacy and Modern Revival
Tartan has long been loved by the Royal Family, from King George IV to Queen Victoria. Subverted by the fashion crowd during the punk movement of the 1970s, the print then became a cornerstone of grunge and indie sleaze in the noughties.
Today, tartan is dominating both the high street and designer collections. On autumn/winter 2026 runways, Burberry’s signature trenches were tartan with fur trims, Chloe sent check cape coats down the catwalk, and Louis Vuitton made a case for tartan co-ords. On our screens, Claudia Winkleman’s covetable Celebrity Traitors wardrobe is providing plenty more inspiration – and ‘Highlands chic’ has emerged as a trend in its own right.
High Street Alternatives to Kate’s Skirt
Kate’s own tartan skirt hails from one of her go-to designers, Emilia Wickstead, but the high street is brimming with similar styles. I’ve found three of the best.
Nobody’s Child navy tartan pleated midi skirt
Nobody’s Child has plenty of choice when it comes to tartan skirts this season. This navy and blue check style is a stellar alternative to Kate’s own skirt, boasting a similar colour palette and maxi length. Complete with pleating and a customisable tie, pair yours with fitted knits and black boots for autumn. £110, Nobodyschild.com
Barbour tartan midi skirt
This Barbour skirt is near-identical to Kate’s Emilia Wickstead skirt. Boasting the same check print and floaty, A-line silhouette, the skirt is easily dressed up or down. Pair with a black heel and tucked-in blouse à la Kate or a wool vest and ballet flats. £89, Barbour.com
Boden Verity tartan skirt
Boden is embracing the Highlands in a big way this autumn, from tartan suits to wool coats. This elegant skirt boasts a flattering high rise waist and pleated, A-line silhouette. The forest green check finish mirrors the green in Kate’s tartan skirt. £119, Boden.com
