Princess Kate swaps tiaras for a red cowboy hat while rallying England’s Red Roses

Royal fashion meets the rugby pitch

When most of us picture Princess Kate at a sporting event, we expect a neatly tailored coat and a tasteful hat. On September 27, however, the Princess of Wales chose a neon‑red cowboy hat, snapping a photo that instantly went viral. The bright Western‑style headwear was more than a fashion statement; it was a visual shout‑out to England’s women’s rugby squad, the Red Roses, as they prepared for the World Cup final.

Kate’s post arrived on the day of the match, a Saturday afternoon that promised a showdown for the ages. In the caption she wrote a heartfelt message of encouragement, reminding the players that the nation was behind them. As patron of the Rugby Football Union, her role extends beyond ceremonial duties – she actively uses her platform to promote the sport and, increasingly, women’s participation in it.

The choice of a cowboy hat broke with royal protocol in a delightful way. Traditionally, members of the royal family lean towards classic British styles that echo centuries of tradition. By opting for a bold, American‑inspired accessory, Kate demonstrated a willingness to be playful and relatable, a move that resonated with younger fans and highlighted the modern face of monarchy.

The impact of Kate’s support on women’s sport

Kate’s endorsement isn’t an isolated incident. Over the past few years she’s been spotted at major cricket matches, horse racing events, and even at a cycling tour, often sending personal messages to athletes on social media. This pattern of engagement helps lift the profile of women’s sport, which still battles for equal media coverage and sponsorship.

For the Red Roses, the timing couldn’t be better. Their journey to the final has captured the imagination of a nation still reeling from the excitement of the men’s game. A royal nod adds a layer of prestige, potentially swaying broadcasters and sponsors to give the women’s final a more prominent slot on television.

Beyond the immediate publicity, Kate’s gesture signals a broader cultural shift. When a senior royal publicly backs a women’s team, it validates the athletes’ hard work and encourages grassroots participation. Young girls watching the match now see a path that blends elite sport with national pride, a powerful combination for future talent pipelines.

• Previous royal appearances at women’s sport events include a support video for the England netball squad and attendance at a women's football cup final.
• Kate’s social media messages often include hashtags that trending worldwide, amplifying exposure for the teams she champions.
• Her patronage of the Rugby Football Union includes regular visits to training grounds, fostering direct relationships with coaches and players.

While the Red Roses still have a tough match ahead, the Princess’s quirky cowboy hat will be remembered as a small but symbolic boost. It shows that even the royal family can step outside the comfort zone to champion a cause, proving that style and sport can indeed ride side by side.