Overview

• At a Women’s Institute visit in Sunningdale on Sept. 8 with Prince William, the Princess of Wales appeared largely back to her chestnut brunette, marking a shift from last week’s lighter look.
• Stylists cited in coverage said she retained some lighter highlights but wore a darker, “smart and practical” style compared with the earlier voluminous curls.
• The honey/caramel-blonde debut on Sept. 4 at the Natural History Museum drew outsized attention because it contrasted with her long-established brunette image.
• At the Sept. 6 Women’s Rugby World Cup match, the look was toned down and pulled back, appearing darker in some light and countering online speculation about a wig.
• Kensington Palace denied accusations of extensions or a wig as commentary split between anonymous criticism of the blonde blowout and public defense from stylist Sam McKnight, who noted her recovery from cancer.