In a dramatic twist featured in the final episodes of The Crown‘s concluding season, viewers witnessed a pivotal moment in the life of a young Kate Middleton, whose participation in a charity fashion show at St Andrews reportedly changed the course of her relationship with Prince William. But how accurate is the portrayal compared to real events?

Kate and William’s Pre-Runway Relationship

Contrary to The Crown’s depiction, reports from the time suggest that, during the charity fashion show titled “The Art of Seduction” at St Andrews Bay Hotel in March 2002, Kate and William were still involved with other individuals. Although portrayed as single in the series, the reality was that they considered each other friends and not romantic prospects. The show’s narrative also deviates on the timeline of certain key events in their relationship, suggesting a more complex dynamic.

The Runway Show

The Crown depicts Kate’s runway entrance, catching Prince William’s attention with a stunning sheer strapless dress. The reality aligns closely with the show, where the actual dress, created by fellow St Andrews student Charlotte Todd, was replicated for the series due to legal constraints. The dress, initially made for a mere £30, gained historical significance after being auctioned for £78,000 following William and Kate’s engagement.

William’s Reaction

While The Crown captures William’s mesmerized reaction to Kate’s runway appearance, real accounts suggest that the event indeed marked a turning point in their relationship. Friends recall William being captivated by Kate’s presence, leading to a shift from friendship to something more. The show, however, doesn’t depict certain details, including William allegedly paying £200 for a front-row ticket and the rumored comment, “Wow, Kate’s hot.”

The After-Party

The Crown portrays an after-party scene where William expresses admiration for Kate and they share a kiss, cut short by news of the Queen Mother’s passing. Reality, however, differs. Reports vary on what transpired at the after-party, but it is generally agreed that William made a move on Kate. Though she reportedly rebuffed him initially due to ongoing relationships, their dating journey commenced shortly after those relationships ended.

While “The Crown” captures the essence of Kate Middleton’s runway moment, certain aspects are dramatized for narrative effect. The real-life events, while equally captivating, unfold with a nuanced complexity that goes beyond the on-screen portrayal. The charity fashion show remains a crucial chapter in the royal couple’s history, highlighting the unpredictable twists that love stories often take.

Article First publish on : https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/the-crown-kate-middleton-catwalk