Kate Middleton wore a face mask to a royal engagement this week. The Duchess of Cambridge helped out unpacking donations at the Baby Basics facility in Sheffield while wearing a protective face covering.
According to reports, Kate Middleton's stylish floral face mask is from the brand Amaia, from designer Amaia Arrieta, and cost around $20. Arrieta told Hello! that the duchess often buys children's clothes from her store.
The royal also bought the brand's face masks for George, Charlotte and Louis at $15 each. Part of the proceeds from Amaia's face masks reportedly goes to the NHS Charities Together to help the front liner workers.
Meanwhile, royal expert Judi James told Daily Express that Kate's body language changes when she has a face mask on. James said the duchess makes compensatory gestures with her body when her mouth is covered.
Since she can't show her smile or her expression, Kate apparently still conveys empathy and active listening with her hand gestures and her eyes. When she's not wearing a mask she has her hands clasped to the front.
Prince William wore an Amaia face mask, too, during a visit to an aged care facility in Cardiff. He picked a simple blue design that matched his clothes.
However, the Duke of Cambridge said he has problems with the protective gear because he mumbles when he speaks. He said it is difficult for other people to hear him because his mouth is covered.
Prince William wore a face mask when he visited Oxford University in June to talk with scientists developing a vaccine against coronavirus. But the duke received criticism for not wearing a mask during a mental-health campaign with the Football Association.
The royal had a viewing football party in an outdoor spot in Sandringham with about 30 guests. But commentators on social media asked why no one was wearing a face mask or observing social distancing, including Prince William.
Prince William and Kate aren't the only royals who have worn masks during their public engagements. Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, also had a protective face covering when she visited the National Gallery in July.
