Kate Middleton’s Milliner Releases 2026 Calendar Featuring Dogs in Hats
Who claims that fashion is exclusively for the two-legged elite? A milliner endorsed by royalty, having designed hats for Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, is transitioning her talents from Buckingham Palace to the realm of canine couture.
Awon Golding is about to unveil her eighth Haute Dogs calendar, featuring stunning new images shot by photographer Lucy Reeve. The initiative aims to generate funds for the UK-based dog rescue charity, Underdog International.
Each year, Golding exchanges royal elegance for rescue inspired designs, creating delightful headwear for dogs in need that resembles the hats worn by the Princess of Wales, 43, and the Duchess of Sussex, 44. “Alongside each portrait, you’ll find the pup’s narrative and the design’s inspiration,” as stated on the site selling the 2026 Haute Dogs calendar for $21 each.
Other renowned milliners, such as Carol Kennedy, Bronwyn Shooks, and Justine Bradley-Hill, contribute their unique flair to ensure these pups showcase the most fashionable chapeaux, featuring 12 adorable dogs—one for each month—in delightfully extravagant styles.
2026 Haute Dogs: May Lucy Reeve
“Creating hats for rescue dogs is an everlasting joy! As playful and whimsical as it may appear, I know we’re making a tangible difference, which makes me truly happy,” Golding shared with People in an interview on Tuesday, October 21. “Adding a touch of humor and brightness is exactly what’s needed in today’s world.”
A force in fashion! The moment Princess Kate graced the catwalk at St Andrews University in 2002 and captured Prince William’s heart, it was evident that she would become a style icon. While the iconic black dress will always be a standout, the royal has evolved into a much more nuanced fashionista.
Notably, Kate adorned a hat by Golding during Prince Philip’s memorial service in March 2022, and again wore a chic blue pillbox hat for Easter celebrations in 2023.
Meghan Markle turned heads in a royal blue and black feathered beret designed by Golding on Christmas Day in 2018, elegantly paired with a matching dress and a Victoria Beckham coat.
2026 Haute Dogs: June Lucy Reeve
Golding, whose creations have graced the heads of celebrities like Lady Gaga, Kylie Minogue, and Dita Von Teese, expressed that this initiative is a passion project for her. She stated, “Underdog International is remarkable for its unique approach to helping both dogs and children.”
“To create significant change in the dog rescue community and the world at large, education is essential, and that’s what makes this charity special,” she noted. Underdog International focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating dogs while helping to find them forever homes.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s rescue dogs are cherished members of their family. “I’ve got three [dogs] in this house now, so we basically have five children,” the Duke of Sussex enthused during a conference call with WellChild Awards recipients in October 2022. “I’ve got a black Labrador named Pula, a rescue beagle named Guy, and […]”
The milliner has successfully raised over $160,500 for dog charities globally since the launch of her first calendar and is thrilled to be making a difference for pups with her efforts.
2026 Haute Dogs: November Lucy Reeve
“Having a delightful calendar hanging on the wall, telling a beautiful story featuring a dog in a hat—its ability to bring smiles is something I truly treasure,” she expressed to the outlet.
Middleton, renowned for her exquisite fascinators during public appearances, made waves in September by donning a cowboy hat for the first time in over 14 years at the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final.
“Good luck, England! 🌹🤠 I’m wishing the best of luck to the @redrosesrugby in their Women’s Rugby World Cup Final at Twickenham today,” she captioned a group photo on Instagram last month. “We’re so proud of you! C.”
