Prince William and Kate Brighten Up the BAFTAs Together

Prince and Princess of Wales Make a Coordinated Appearance at BAFTA Film Awards

The Prince and Princess of Wales demonstrated unity and style at the BAFTA Film Awards on Sunday, following a significant moment in royal history. This marked their second public outing since Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

As they graced the red carpet at London’s Royal Festival Hall, the couple showcased complementary outfits—Kate’s burgundy Gucci gown harmonizing with William’s velvet tuxedo jacket. Their coordinated appearance comes in the wake of Mountbatten-Windsor, the uncle of Prince William, being the first member of the modern UK royal family to face arrest. Though the former Prince Andrew has denied wrongdoing, he has not publicly addressed the latest allegations and was released after over 10 hours in police custody.

Footage from the event captured a guest questioning the stability of the monarchy, but the royal couple did not respond to reporters. As they settled into their seats, William reportedly confided to fellow guests that he was not in a calm state, referencing the emotional weight surrounding the evening’s events.

While the Prince and Princess have not issued a statement regarding the arrest, a palace spokesperson earlier expressed that they were “deeply concerned by the continuing revelations” about Mountbatten-Windsor’s connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Their attendance at the BAFTAs was anticipated, as William serves as the president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. This marks their first time attending the ceremony together since 2023 and follows Kate’s cancer diagnosis the subsequent year.

In a related event, King Charles III made a notable appearance at London Fashion Week, attending a runway show shortly after his brother’s arrest. The 77-year-old monarch emphasized the royal family’s commitment to their service in his statement amidst the unfolding crisis.

Although known for avoiding matching outfits, the couple donned unusually coordinated formalwear on the evening. William wore a dark red dinner jacket, while Kate chose a floor-length mauve gown, accented with a velvet ribbon. She accessorized with earrings from the royal collection, originally a gift to the then Princess Elizabeth in 1947.

The Princess of Wales continued her tradition of rewearing outfits, having previously donned the Gucci gown at a London event in 2019. Her last BAFTA appearance in 2023 featured an Alexander McQueen gown she had previously worn, further emphasizing her commitment to sustainability in fashion.

Images

The Princess of Wales arrives on the BAFTAs red carpet on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

Kate pictured wearing the same dress for an event at The V&A on February 13, 2019.

Background on the Outfits

The Princess of Wales has a history of reusing dresses at such events, having previously donned the Gucci gown in 2019. Her choice of attire continues a pattern seen at BAFTA ceremonies, where she has opted for pieces from designers like Alexander McQueen, exemplifying both style and sustainability.