Kate would carry ‘dated’ clutch bags as a ‘shield’ – unlike Meghan

Kate Middleton has a massive clutch bag collection from brands such as Mulberry, Emmy London and Aspinal of London. The late Queen Elizabeth, on the other hand, was a big fan of Launer London handbags who even held a royal warrant. Susie Nelson, the founder of Modes and More, spoke exclusively to Express.co.uk to explain why the Princess of Wales favoured clutch bags.

After this, Kate began carrying handbags much more frequently – even as recently as her royal tour to Boston in December 2022.

Susie explained why this potentially happened: “When Meghan arrived, I do think Kate maybe thought she needed to up her game regarding both clothes and handbags, for a more polished, international look.

“There are royal restrictions and rules, and she can’t shop like an oligarch, nor can she accept gifts from stores, designers or stylists, or wear black during the day apart from at funerals.

“She also needs to consider how the outfit will be received by the outside world not just the fashion press.

“Her bags are sourced from a wide range of suppliers: Aspinal, Hobbs, Mulberry, LK Bennett, Jeager and De Mellier.

“She is thought to have several of the Aspinal of London Midi Mayfair which sells for around £500, and the Mulberry Amberley Satchel at around £900 is thought to be another favourite. Certainly not cheap but not silly money either.”

Susie gave some insight into what the Princess of Wales might carry in her handbag. She claimed: “The bags Kate carries are quite small, and she needs to be able to find things quickly, so she would I think carry only her essentials.

“The essentials thought to be, lip balm, a handkerchief, a compact and a mirror. There is no doubt a lady in waiting to carry other things. The late Queen, whose bags were a little larger, carried a fountain pen, family photos, reading glasses, lipstick and money for church.”