What is the Difference Between Kate Middleton and Princess Diana?

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Kate Middleton and Princess Diana share some similarities, such as their fashion sense and the fact that they both married into the British royal family. However, there are key differences between the two women:

  1. Personality: While both women are known for their grace and charm, Kate Middleton is described as having more common sense than Princess Diana. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams points out that "Diana and Catherine are completely different personalities".
  2. Approachability: Princess Diana was known as the 'People's Princess' due to her relatability and approachability. Kate Middleton has also been dubbed 'The new People's Princess' by some fans, but for different reasons, such as her class, elegance, and devotion to duty.
  3. Fashion: Although both women have influential taste in fashion and have worn similar outfits on occasion, Princess Diana's style was more distinct and remains relevant to this day. Kate Middleton has a tendency to reference and reinvent Diana's style, giving it a modern twist.
  4. Experience: Kate Middleton has had over a decade to establish her own identity as a hardworking royal. In contrast, Princess Diana's tenure as a royal was cut short by her tragic death in 1997.
  5. Role: As the new Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton is expected to focus on different aspects of her role than Princess Diana did. The title of Princess of Wales is dependent on her husband's place in the royal family.

In summary, while Kate Middleton and Princess Diana share some similarities, they are distinct individuals with unique personalities, approaches to their roles, and fashions. Comparing them can be problematic as it oversimplifies their lives and contributions to the royal family.

Comparative Table: Kate Middleton vs Princess Diana

Here is a table highlighting some differences between Kate Middleton and Princess Diana:

Feature Kate Middleton Princess Diana
Background Commoner, from a middle-class family Noble family, Lady Diana Spencer
Education Graduated from the University of St Andrews with a degree in Art History Attended the Institut Alpin Videmanette for finishing school in Switzerland
Public Image More reserved and private More open and candid with the media
Fashion Influential taste, often references and reinvents Princess Diana's style Iconic sartorial sense, known for her "people's princess" style
Motherhood Hands-on mom, travels with children while performing royal duties Hands-on mom, also focused on being present with her children
Philanthropy Prioritizes helping others, supports various charities and causes Helped bring attention to issues like landmines, AIDS, and homelessness
Marriage Married Prince William in 2011 Married Prince Charles in 1981, later divorced in 1996
Children Three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis Two children: Prince William and Prince Harry

Despite their differences, both Kate Middleton and Princess Diana have had significant impacts on the British royal family and have been influential in their respective roles as Duchess and Princess of Wales.