Princess Catherine’s recent public appearance delivered more than just a spotlight on the arts—it sparked a heated discussion over style, etiquette, and museum rules.
On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the Princess of Wales visited the newly inaugurated V&A East Storehouse in East London. Dressed in a striking royal blue suit, she exuded her usual poise and elegance.
High Heels and Low Approval
However, her shoes—black suede pumps by Gianvito Rossi priced at $795—raised eyebrows for not aligning with the museum’s suggested attire. The V&A East Storehouse, a new addition to the Victoria and Albert Museum, functions as a public-access storage facility where visitors can experience conservation and collection work up close.
According to the museum’s website, the building allows guests to “get closer than ever before” to stored artifacts and the conservation process.
Its standout feature, the Weston Collections Hall, spans three levels, incorporating metal grid walkways and glass railings. Portions of the glass floor even offer views of lower storage spaces and architectural elements like the Agra Colonnade.
In light of this design, the museum advises guests to dress appropriately: “We recommend wearing practical clothing and flat shoes. The metal grid flooring is not suitable for stilettos or kitten heels.”
Public Reactions Online
The Princess’s footwear quickly became a talking point online. Critics on social media accused her of ignoring the venue’s guidance. One user asked, “What’s up with her feet,” while another wrote, “Typical, a rule for everyone else but not Catherine.”
A third comment read, “I think that’s very disrespectful. If anywhere asks you not to wear heels to protect the floor you should follow the rules. Anybody else would not have been allowed in.”
Another detractor added, “She couldn’t memorize an 8 second speech which included mostly 3 letter words. You thought Ms. Lazy would read the rules of the museum?”
Some commenters, however, downplayed the situation, pointing out that the museum’s statement was simply a recommendation. “So it’s only advice but not a rule,” one person noted.
