A royal appearance, a pair of heels, and a dress code advisory — the Princess of Wales’s latest public appearance left more than art on display.

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Princess Catherine visited the newly opened V&A East Storehouse, a public museum facility in East London. Dressed in a royal blue suit and sleek black heels, she appeared composed and stylish.

However, her choice of footwear conflicted with guidance issued by the venue. The V&A East Storehouse, a new branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum, invites the public to explore its extensive collection in a working storage environment.

According to the museum’s website, the facility allows visitors to get “closer than ever before” to archived objects and the behind-the-scenes processes of conservation and curation.

Its centerpiece, the Weston Collections Hall, spans three levels with walkways constructed from metal grid flooring and bordered by glass balustrades. A section of glass flooring reveals views of the Agra Colonnade and lower storage levels.

Given these architectural features, the museum advises, “We recommend wearing practical clothing and flat shoes. The metal grid flooring is not suitable for stilettos or kitten heels.

Public response to the outing varied. On social media, some criticized the footwear choice as dismissive of the museum’s request. One critic wrote, “Typical, a rule for everyone else but not Catherine.”

Another added, “I think that’s very disrespectful. If anywhere [sic] asks you not to wear heels to protect the floor you should follow the rules. Anybody else would not have been allowed in.”

Others noted the advisory’s wording, pointing out, “So it’s only advice but not a rule.” Some directed criticism toward the building itself, “They should improve the flooring .”

While no formal comment was issued regarding the Princess’s heels, Tristram Hunt, director of the V&A, addressed the matter lightheartedly. Speaking to People following the visit, he said, “She is a pro! She dealt with that!”

He went on to commend her engagement during the tour, “It went really well. She was really focused on the objects — it is impressive.” Hunt added that the Princess brought impressive energy and focus to the visit, noting her continued passion for creativity, craftsmanship, and design. “It was wonderful to be able to host her,” he said.

The visit reflected Catherine’s long-standing interest in the arts; she earned a degree in art history from the University of St Andrews in 2005. Here’s a closer look at her standout ensemble as captured throughout the museum tour.