One of Kate Middleton’s first appearances when she returned to public life on September 8, 2025, was next to Prince William. The royal couple onstage at the National Federation of Women’s Institute (WI) Annual Meeting in Sunningdale, west of London. Perhaps most importantly, they doggedly pursued engagement with members from Berkshire and the surrounding communities. This convening was a unique opportunity to foreground the organization’s role in community building, skills sharing, and grassroots movement nurturance.
This is in contrast to what Kate was looking like earlier this summer, when she’d been spotted with lighter, “bronde” hair. Her last public appearance showed her with blonde locks shortly before she revealed her esophageal cancer diagnosis in March 2024. As she prepared herself for treatment, she decided to have chemotherapy firsthand. She decided not to provide information about the kind or stage of her disease. Today, she shared the great news that after going through several rounds of treatment, her cancer is in remission.
Kate wore her trademark brown locks at the WI event, with flicks of soft highlights and loosely curled hair. This change marked her ongoing return to public engagements after a period of time spent largely out of the spotlight with her family. At the beginning of this month, the family had an outing to London’s Natural History Museum. It was their first performance together since spending the summer focused on making sure their kids were okay.
The Women’s Institute has a fascinating royal history. It has a unique bond with Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The official Instagram account of the Prince and Princess of Wales noted, “The WI holds a special connection to Her Late Majesty, who was a member for 80 years, joining in 1943 and serving as President of the Sandringham WI from 2003 until her death in 2022.”
Throughout the engagement with WI members, Kate was very appreciative of the opportunity to learn more about the organization’s efforts and impact. “Very special opportunity to hear from members today about the importance of The Late Queen’s involvement in the organisation and meet those who met with her during her reign,” she said.
Just ask Kate Middleton and Prince William—they’re preparing for a big one! They are reported to be heading to Forest Lodge, an extraordinary eight-bedroom residence on the Windsor Castle estate. This change is entirely understandable and speaks to their broader desire to enjoy a new stage of family life while balancing the demands of royal work.
