Earlier this year, London Fashion Week played host to an unlikely guest: King Charles III attended his first fashion show, sitting front row for Tolu Coker’s fall 2026 presentation. Today, the Princess of Wales has followed her father-in-law’s cue, welcoming the Nigerian president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu while wearing a grey and white coat by the British-Nigerian designer.
Taken from Coker’s fall 2024 collectsion, the double-breasted coat was an unusually fashion-forward choice from the princess. Kate tends to rely on tailoring for formal engagements, but is typically found in McQueen or Catherine Walker. However, the cult young London designer can trace her royal connection back further than the king’s appearance on her front row. Coker, who launched her eponymous label in 2018, was an early beneficiary of The Prince’s Trust, receiving mentorship and support from the organisation as she built her brand. Eight years later, her ’60s-inflected pieces have become a highlight of the London Fashion Week calendar.
The Princess of Wales is known for her patronage of British design—a constant theme in her royal wardrobe. McQueen has been a go-to brand since her wedding day, whether she’s hosting the English Red Roses at Windsor Castle or greeting the Irish Guards for St Patrick’s Day. Still, every so often Kate will add a little IYKYK flair—perhaps with an unexpected accessory, a diplomatic choice of handbag, or in this case, a retro coat dress from one of LFW’s favorite young designers.