Earlier this week, an intriguing intersection of social media influence and royal presence took place at Highgrove House, where Lydia Millen, a prominent UK-based influencer, had the unique opportunity to meet King Charles III during the annual ‘Crafts at Christmas’ event hosted by The King’s Foundation. The occasion not only celebrated craftsmanship but accentuated the growing visibility of social media figures in royal engagements.
Much of the buzz surrounding this meeting stemmed from the uncanny resemblance Lydia bore to the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton. Both women possess an elegant style characterized by long, flowing locks and a penchant for tailored outfits that exude sophistication. Lydia was dressed in a sleek and polished ensemble that included a suit by Suzannah London and high heels from Emmy London—brands frequently favored by royal family members for formal engagements. This sartorial choice cleverly aligned Millen’s fashion sense with that of a royal, highlighting the fluid overlap between contemporary influencers and traditional royalty.
Perhaps the most striking element of Lydia’s outfit was her custom-made hat from Miss B’s Millinery. This exquisite accessory, featuring a charming bow at the back, drew notable comparisons to a similar blue hat worn by Kate Middleton during the 2022 Commonwealth Day celebrations, which had been designed by the esteemed Sean Barrett. From a distance, one could easily mistake the two women for sisters, both embodying a sense of refined British fashion complete with their hats.
The fashion component of the event did not go unnoticed by Lydia’s large social media following, exceeding two million on Instagram. Comments poured in, praising her elegant appearance and drawing direct parallels to Kate’s style. One admirer remarked, “Your ensemble is lovely… rivaling Katherine’s style,” while another echoed this sentiment by calling her hat “stunning” and invoking the “Kate vibes” associated with her look. Such interactions demonstrate the significant impact of social media in shaping perceptions of style and influencing contemporary fashion narratives, often in direct correlation with royal aesthetics.
In an exclusive conversation with HELLO, Millen articulated her intention to honor British craftsmanship through her attire. She emphasized her commitment to supporting brands that feature female founders, explicitly mentioning the labels she collaborated with—Suzannah London, Miss B’s Millinery, and Emmy London. This orientation toward local craftsmanship not only reflects her personal values but reinforces the broader narrative that supports sustainable and ethical fashion.
Lydia elaborated on her choice of fragrance, the Highgrove Bouquet by Penhaligon’s, which she felt was particularly fitting for the festive event. This careful selection of both clothing and scent showcases an awareness of the significance surrounding the occasion, indicative of a well-considered approach to public appearances.
Discussing her encounter with King Charles, Millen expressed a sense of honor and nostalgia. Their previous meeting through The King’s Trust added depth to their connection, making this reunion at The King’s Foundation’s Craft at Christmas event especially meaningful. The King’s Foundation has a commendable mission focused on fostering sustainable communities and transforming lives through educational programs. Millen’s firsthand experiences with the foundation’s initiatives, particularly in fields like woodworking and millinery, enhanced her appreciation for the cause and its beneficiaries.
This meeting not only exemplifies the evolving relationship between modern influencers and the royal family but also highlights how such encounters can elevate dialogues about community service and craftsmanship. It bridges tradition with contemporary culture, suggesting a future where social media influencers and royalty can coexist and collaborate in championing significant causes.
Millen’s engagement with King Charles was not merely a highlight for her but a reflection of shifting dynamics in public life, fashion, and social responsibility. As these worlds continue to intersect, events like ‘Crafts at Christmas’ pave the way for deeper connections and a more inclusive narrative surrounding both modern influence and royal legacy.