Kate Middleton is known for her sophisticated fashion choices and elegant beauty looks, which have rarely attracted criticism. However, her latest appearance has sparked debate online, with some fans questioning whether her makeup was too heavy for her features and suggesting she consider changing her signature glam routine.
The Princess of Wales attended a state banquet at Windsor Castle on October 20, held in honor of Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik Al Said during his visit to the United Kingdom.
For the occasion, Kate opted for a striking bright yellow gown by Elie Saab, bringing a bold pop of color to the formal event. The pleated dress, reportedly priced at $6,500, featured a keyhole neckline with braided detailing, a flowing sheer cape and a cummerbund-style waistband that emphasized her silhouette.
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Critics React To Kate Middleton's 'Heavy' Makeup
The mother of three completed the regal ensemble with Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, a historic royal jewel long associated with Princess Diana, who was known to favor the piece.
While Kate’s gown and tiara delivered a glamorous royal look, it was her makeup that became the focus of online discussion.
For her beauty look, the princess wore dark brown eyeshadow paired with black eyeliner, defined her eyebrows with brown makeup to complement her brunette hair, and added coral blush and a coral-pink lipstick.
However, some viewers felt the makeup did not flatter her features, with several suggesting that the heavy eye makeup and overall styling made the look appear dated.
“Does she not consult brow experts and makeup professionals out of shame? Charlotte Tilbury and Victoria Beckham are right there,” one person commented.
Another user brought up Kate’s wedding makeup, writing, “She had her makeup done professionally for her wedding but allegedly wiped it off and did it herself because she didn't think it looked like her.”
“Yes, the eye make up. It’s not right is it,” another commenter wrote.
Others questioned the overall styling of the look, with one person describing it as “2013 makeup” and adding, “prom dress formal attire. and they’ll never make me love tiaras with loose hair.”
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“Girl needs a stylist and make up artist. Who are familiar with 2026,” another user declared.
“The makeup is . . . unfortunate,” one commenter wrote.
Another person suggested that heavier makeup can become less flattering with age, commenting, “As women get older most cannot wear such heavy makeup, it can really age you.”
Despite the criticism, Kate has long maintained a relatively hands-on approach to her personal style. She does not currently have a dedicated full-time stylist, instead selecting many of her own outfits with logistical support from her staff.
Natasha Archer, who served as Kate’s longtime personal assistant and stylist for approximately 15 years, stepped down from her royal role in 2025 to establish her own creative consultancy. Kate has not publicly announced a direct replacement for Archer.
The princess has also been known to handle much of her everyday makeup herself, although she has worked with professional makeup artists for significant occasions. Makeup artist Hannah Martin, who represented Bobbi Brown at the time, worked on Kate’s bridal makeup for her 2011 wedding to Prince William.
