Princess Kate's new power is expected to have a huge impact on the British fashion industry, several commentators have claimed.
The Princess of Wales will become the first holder of her title in more than a century to grant Royal Warrants, and many believe she will use her newly appointed power to promote British fashion houses.
Several of these brands appear well-positioned for royal endorsement. Burberry and Barbour, two brands that Kate loves, already hold warrants from the King and could receive additional recognition.
Meanwhile, milliner Philip Treacy holds a warrant from Queen Camilla.
Princess Kate set for billion-pound impact as she gains major power.
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The Princess's endorsements are arriving in the digital shopping age, where the "Kate Effect" has become legendary. Items she wears routinely sell out within minutes online, with websites sometimes crashing under demand.
"There is a large swath of royal watchers who came to follow the Royal Family through her and, importantly, shop the brands she wears," Elizabeth Holmes, author of HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style, told Town & Country.
Catherine Walker and Jenny Packham, two design houses loved by Kate, have emerged as leading contenders for new appointments.
"Key factors are likely to include a brand's history and heritage, its role in British culture and contributions to the community, as well as its corporate governance and business practices," Susan Kelley, founder of What Kate Wore, told the publication.
Princess Kate and Prince William are able to award royal warrants.
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Kelley suggested additional possibilities, including "Erdem, Beulah London, and perhaps a childrenswear brand like Trotters London." Scottish cashmere specialist Brora, Campbell's of Beauly and Dubarry of Ireland also feature among potential recipients.
The Princess's influence on British fashion remains substantial, with some estimations suggesting she has boosted the industry by around £1billion during her time in the Royal Family.
"I do wonder if Kate, who has mastered the art of high-low dressing, will include more affordable brands in her royal warrant selection," Holmes added.
Royal fashion expert Christine Ross noted that smaller or more affordable brands could see measurable impact. "A brand's accessibility in both price and international delivery would be key to their Royal Warrant leading to success," she claimed.
Princess Kate wearing a Jenny Packham dress in Jamaica in 2022.
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The global reach of online shopping amplifies the commercial benefits significantly. "Internet and online shopping has made it so that the customer base for any given business is suddenly global," Holmes said.
"There is something quite special in being able to buy something for yourself or give it as a gift and say, 'This is Kate approved.'"
Applications are now open for businesses already holding warrants from the King or Queen to seek endorsement from the Princess of Wales or Prince William.
The Palace announced the couple will award their first warrants through a two-stage process. Current warrant holders can apply immediately, with selections to be announced next spring. Applications will open to other companies next year.
Princess Kate wearing a Catherine Walker design at Westminster Abbey in 2022.
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"Their Royal Highnesses are delighted to be able to recognise and celebrate British industry, creativity and skills through the granting of Warrants," Ian Patrick, William's private secretary, said. The focus will be on British-owned or UK-based businesses.
A Royal Warrant serves as an official mark of recognition for companies that have regularly supplied goods or services to the royal household.
Businesses must have supplied a royal for at least five of the past seven years and demonstrate sustainability commitments to qualify.
"A Royal Warrant is seen by many firms as the gold standard of endorsements," royal journalist Richard Palmer said. "It's an honour, but more importantly, it's of commercial value…Kate's warrant will be especially sought after."