Gone are the days when Princess Charlotte was often seen in adorable floral dresses, carefully chosen by her mother. In a stunning new photo released to mark her 10th birthday, Charlotte is captured in a more mature, carefree moment.
Taken earlier this year during a family trip to Cumbria, the picture shows the young princess in her element—hiking in the great outdoors, windswept and beaming with joy. The photo, snapped by the Princess of Wales herself on her iPhone, perfectly captures Charlotte’s growing maturity as she enters her double digits.
Dressed in practical outdoor gear, Charlotte wears a £37 Jack Pyke children’s “Evolution Camo” jacket, paired with trousers and a snugly fastened knapsack. Her hair, which shares a striking resemblance to Kate’s, is loosely tied in a ponytail, a stark contrast to the more polished pigtails we’ve often seen in past portraits.
Charlotte’s infectious giggle and wide smile, as she looks at her mother, radiate a sense of happiness and freedom, showcasing just how much she’s grown. Gone are the formal birthday portraits of the past, where Charlotte posed in skirts and jumpers—this is a young girl, full of life and adventure.
Over the years, Kate has shared how much time spent outdoors with her family means to her, especially in the past few months. She has spoken about how the natural world provided comfort and healing during her battle with cancer, and how it continues to be a source of strength.
Kate’s children have inherited their mother’s love for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and sailing, which are some of their favorite pastimes.
Charlotte, now 10, is already showing signs of stepping into a more prominent role in the royal family. Third in line to the throne, she is expected to one day become Princess Royal, a title many believe she would be well-suited for, following in the footsteps of her great-aunt, Princess Anne.
Born on May 2, 2015, Charlotte is the first British princess to hold a position above her younger sibling, thanks to the changes made in 2013 to succession laws, which now give equal priority to male and female heirs.
Charlotte made her grand entrance into the world at 8:34 a.m. at St. Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, London, weighing 8 lb 3 oz. Her full name, Charlotte Elizabeth Diana, pays tribute to both her grandmother and the late Queen.
While Charlotte and her siblings attend the coeducational Lambrook School in Berkshire, it’s been reported that Kate and William are also keeping an eye on Marlborough, Kate’s former school, for Charlotte’s future.
Despite her young age, Charlotte already exudes grace and charm in public, and she is often seen looking after her younger brothers, especially Louis, at family events. Charlotte’s loving, protective nature has made her a fan favorite, and she is expected to attend the VE Day 80 festivities with her family.
Kate, an avid photographer, has long captured beautiful moments of her children, often taking candid family photos on special occasions. Last year, for Charlotte’s birthday, Kate shared a heartwarming image of her daughter with her golden locks and mischievous smile.
Charlotte’s role in the royal family has grown, with insiders revealing that she is the “boss of the family.” Known for her spirited personality, Charlotte isn’t shy about voicing her opinions, whether she’s keeping her brothers in check or laughing at her parents’ public displays of affection.
Royal historian Marlene Koenig told US Weekly that Charlotte is the one who rules the roost at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor, with Kate describing her as independent and “the one in charge.”
It’s clear Charlotte’s confidence is already making an impact—just last year, William shared a funny story about how Charlotte forced him to shave off his beard after she had an emotional reaction to his new look.
During last year’s Trooping the Colour, Charlotte displayed her strong-willed nature when she scolded her brother Louis, who was acting up during the formal event. According to lip reader Nicola Hickling, Charlotte told Louis, “You have to stop doing that. Watch the parade,” to which he stubbornly replied, “I won’t.”
Despite the formality of royal life, Charlotte and her siblings, Prince George and Prince Louis, are just like any other children, full of energy and mischief—making their family moments all the more relatable and endearing.
The three royal siblings—George, Charlotte, and Louis—are as “normal” as their privileged lives allow, with moments of joy and mischief that many can relate to. Whether it’s blowing raspberries, enjoying pizza, or getting caught up in the excitement of a football match, they experience the same playful moments as any other child.
Earlier this year, during a St. Patrick’s Day parade in March, Kate made a rare comment about her daughter. After missing the 2024 parade due to receiving cancer treatment, Kate made her return to the event, fulfilling her role as Colonel of the Irish Guards at the Wellington Barracks.
During her visit, Major General Sir Chris Ghika, Lt Col Ben Irwin-Clark, and their partners welcomed Kate. It was during this occasion that Carice, Ben’s wife, had a chance to chat with Kate, and she revealed that her daughter and Charlotte often compete against each other in school games.
Carice shared, “We so often see you at matches because our girls are always playing each other. They’re from Farleigh and Lambrook, so I think there’s some stiff competition.” To which Kate, clearly familiar with the dynamic, replied, “Of course, are they in the same year?” Carice confirmed, “Yes, Year Five.”
This glimpse into Charlotte’s everyday life, where she’s just another schoolgirl competing in friendly games, shows the balance she maintains between her royal duties and her more “normal” childhood experiences.
Kate, the future Queen, added with a smile, “I was just saying, they’re doing so much, sporting events.”
Carice, laughing along with Kate, responded, “Now it’s getting a bit warmer, it’s nicer for a spectator.” Kate chuckled in agreement, clearly enjoying the lighthearted conversation.
William has also shared his daughter’s growing love for football, revealing to the Lionesses, “Charlotte wants me to tell you she’s really good in goal… a budding star for the future!” It’s clear that Charlotte’s competitive spirit extends beyond the schoolyard.
The Wales family has also opened up about Charlotte’s passion for dancing. During a 2023 outing, Kate mentioned that Charlotte loves both ballet and tap, showcasing her versatile interests and talents beyond sports.
