Princess Charlotte showcased a delightful change in her hairstyle during the royal family’s Easter Matins Service, held at St George’s Chapel in Windsor on April 5, 2026. The 10-year-old royal made a striking appearance with her hair styled in braids, marking a notable shift from her recent looks, particularly her signature half-ponytail which she often wore in late 2025.
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Charlotte, who has inherited her father, Prince William’s, blonde locks, sported a charming braid design that elegantly pulled her hair back from her face. Each side featured small braids that intertwined in a lovely twist, beautifully enhancing her youthful appearance. This new hairstyle seemed to reflect a playful spirit, fitting for a young girl attending a family occasion such as Easter Sunday.
This braided look represents a deviation from the half-ponytail style that had become somewhat of a staple for Charlotte in late 2025. Throughout December of that year, she was frequently seen with her hair pulled back into a half-ponytail secured with colourful ribbons during various public engagements.
However, the princess has previously worn braids on several occasions, suggesting that she enjoys experimenting with her hairstyles. Last spring and summer, she was spotted with braided styles for key events including VE Day in May, the Trooping the Colour ceremony in June, and even the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in July. Each appearance highlighted her growing sense of personal style and the versatility of her beautiful blonde hair.
Charlotte’s mother, Princess Kate, has often shared the ups and downs of hairstyling her daughter. During a royal visit to Cumbria in June 2019, she light-heartedly admitted that plaiting Charlotte’s hair isn’t her forte. “I tried to do a plait with Charlotte this morning, and it didn’t really work very well,” Kate recalled, embracing the occasional challenges that come with styling her children’s hair.
Similarly, Prince William, who actively participates in parenting, has been candid about his own experiences with Charlotte’s hair. Referencing discussions during a group event with fathers, he comically warned against attempting to create a ponytail, saying, “Never try to do a ponytail! Nightmare.” This playful banter illustrates the everyday realities and light-hearted frustrations of parenting, even within the royal family.
The family outing for Easter Sunday also included Prince George, Prince Louis, and other prominent royals, demonstrating the tightly-knit relationships amongst them during such significant occasions. The unity and familial bonds were palpable, with Charlotte’s charming look serving as a focal point throughout the event.
As the young princess continues to grow, her evolving sense of style reflects her development and individuality. Her choice to switch from a classic half-ponytail to stylish braids indicates not only a personal preference but possibly the beginning of a future trend in royal fashion. With each public appearance, Charlotte remains a subject of intrigue and admiration, capturing the hearts of royal watchers everywhere.
The close-knit family dynamics within the royal family, coupled with their candid conversations about parenting, are refreshing. They remind us that beneath the titles and public personas, they are primarily a family navigating the joys and challenges of raising children, much like any other home in the UK.