Kate Middleton makes fashion ‘pivot’ as she debuts new 2026 trouser trend

The Princess of Wales looked as beautiful and stylish as ever last week as she headed to Castle Hill Academy in New Addington, Croydon, to mark Children’s Mental Health Week 2026, which was from 9 to 15 February.

The wife of Prince William shocked fashion fans as she opted for an ultra-preppy look, rocking Boden flat loafers and a structured blazer known as the ‘Founder’ jacket by Petar Petrov. Directionally, Kate rolled up the sleeves and folded her shirt cuffs over the top, creating a modern, relaxed officewear look.

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But it was her trousers that took centre stage. During my time as fashion and beauty news editor at HELLO!, I’ve noticed that Kate tends to switch between sleek flared trousers and skinny jeans, even though many fashion experts think they are no longer ‘trend-led’ denim.

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So to see the brunette royal sporting a pair of cigarette pants is quite the change. The sleek fashion trend has quickly gained notoriety this season, becoming the 2026 trousers everyone wants to invest in.

What are cigarette pants?

The classic staple embodies French fashion, which is universally considered one of the most stylish genres. Cigarette pants are ankle-grazing trousers that are tailored by both name and nature. They received their iconic moniker due to the distinctive shape of the leg, which is akin to a cigarette or cigar. 

© Toby Shepheard / Kensington Palace

Boasting a slim silhouette, they are cut straight from the knee to just above the ankle, which allowed Kate to show off her sleek Boden loafers on her most recent outing.

Cigarette pants – the expert opinion

“Cigarette pants are having a moment because fashion has officially pivoted away from slouchy, low-effort dressing and back toward something sharper, sexier and more international,” fashion stylist Georgie Gray tells HELLO!. “There’s a craving for polish again, the kind of effortless elegance you get when a look is cut close to the body,” said the stylist, who has worked with many high-profile names, including Molly-Mae Hague and Rochelle Humes.