Kate Middleton Breaks From Royal Tradition in Scalloped Prada Sandals & Bird-Print Markus Lupfer Dress

Back in 2017, Kate Middleton proved that being royal doesn’t mean sacrificing style experimentation.

By the time of her visit to Clärchens Ballhaus — Berlin’s last original dance hall — the Duchess of Cambridge had fully embraced her role in the public eye, evolving from the understated “girl next door” we met in her early royal days into a confident style icon.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, visits Clarchens Ballhaus, the last original dance hall in Berlin, Germany, on July 20, 2017 (Credit: Frederic Kern / Future Image / Tim Rooke / REX / Shutterstock / WENN)

Naturally, an elevated role called for an elevated wardrobe. For this occasion, Kate honored her host country with a sleeveless bird-print dress by German designer Markus Lupfer, adding a playful metallic belt for a modern twist.

Accompanied by Prince William, Kate Middleton makes her appearance at Clärchens Ballhaus

Kate Middleton Adds a Modern Twist With Prada’s Scalloped Sandals

But the real surprise? She traded her signature court pumps for a pair of Prada scalloped suede sandals — a style defined by its soft, wave-like edging that blends feminine elegance with Prada’s minimalist aesthetic.

Crafted from luxe suede with the brand’s signature meticulous detailing, these sandals offered a refined yet playful touch, transforming her ensemble with a fresh, youthful edge that perfectly balanced royal sophistication with modern fashion.

The Duchess of Cambridge steps out in her stunning nude suede Prada scalloped sandals, known for their elegant wave-like edges

Kate Middleton’s Prada scalloped sandals, featuring their signature wavy trim in soft nude suede

Kate Middleton Embraces Playful Elegance in Markus Lupfer

Kate honored the country she was visiting in true diplomatic fashion, choosing a bird-print dress by Markus Lupfer — a German-born, London-based designer celebrated for his playful, witty aesthetic.

Known for his signature sequined knitwear and bold graphic prints, which have won fans such as Nicole Kidman, Emmy Rossum, and Olivia Palermo, Lupfer has built a cult-favorite label that seamlessly blends humor with high-end craftsmanship.

Kate wore the sleeveless version of the dress, which is also available online in a long-sleeved iteration. We love how the Duchess managed to put a modern spin on the conservative look with a fun metal belt.

The belt wasn’t the only fun quirk Kate added to her outfit, however. The Duchess replaced her usual sensible pumps with a pair of scalloped suede sandals by Prada.

The Duchess of Cambridge looked stunning in a striking bird-print dress by German designer Markus Lupfer, cinched with a metallic belt and paired with her elegant Prada scalloped sandals

A candid moment: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge share a hearty laugh during their tour of Clärchens Ballhaus

We think Kate’s footwear selection came just in time, too. We were getting a bit tired of her routine, especially with the Gianvito Rossi and L.K. Bennett pumps.

Kate managed to look regal and youthful at the same time. If Grace Kelly were still alive, she would be proud.

More of Kate Middleton’s Iconic Shoe Moments

From diplomatic dressing in Berlin to polished appearances at Wimbledon and Garter Day, Kate Middleton continues to prove that her footwear choices are as thoughtful as her outfits. Explore more of the Duchess’s most memorable shoe moments below.