Princess Kate Champions British Textiles: A Royal Nod to Sustainability and Heritage
February 3, 2026
Fashion analysts view her collaboration on the coat as signaling a shift toward a hands-on, design-influencing role with emphasis on sustainability and support for emerging designers.
She ended the day mingling with onlookers and expressing appreciation for the craftsmanship and processes observed.
The broader fashion narrative around Meghan Markle’s style emphasizes supporting smaller brands with mission-driven aims, shaping brand visibility through thoughtful choices.
The Princess of Wales visited Melin Tregwynt in Pembrokeshire and Hiut Denim in Cardigan to observe traditional textile production, meet workers, and engage hands-on with fabric-making skills across the Welsh mills.
Melin Tregwynt has been run by the Griffiths family for over a century and transitioned to an employee-owned trust in 2022, highlighting a worker-centered approach.
Kate’s family has historical ties to textiles, including paternal ancestors who owned the Leeds-based woolen manufacturer William Lupton & Co.
Markle’s own remarks underscore selectively backing brands with strong missions and female founders, noting fashion choices can influence visibility without formal statements.
During the visits, Kate interacted with the public at the gates and even your factory dog Barney, expressing gratitude for supporters.
She wore Spells of Love garnet earrings, aligned with her January birthstone and symbolic meaning, potentially a gift from Prince William.
The visit is framed as a strategic effort to reinforce Kate’s influence in fashion and bolster branding for the royal couple.
Industry observers highlighted her growing influence and hands-on involvement in design, noting a broader impact on the British fashion scene.
Together with William, she promotes a sustainable ethos of buying less while celebrating creativity and responsibility.
Summary based on 31 sources
Get a daily email with more UK News stories
Sources

BBC News • Feb 3, 2026
Princess of Wales visits Pembrokeshire woollen mill
The Independent • Feb 3, 2026
Kate’s needlework praised in woollen mill visit
The Independent • Feb 3, 2026
‘She’s got the skill’: Kate turns her hand to needle and thread at woollen mill