Kate Middleton’s hair evolution – how the Duchess went from messy mid-lengths to polished perfection – Mirror.co.uk

From catwalk curls to chic updos, Kate Middleton's hair is the envy of the nation. Weve seen her evolve from the pre-blow dry days into the sophisticated icon that she is now, and shes barely made a style slip along the way.

We look back at the subtle changes that prompted people across the globe to go for the chop, attempt an overgrown fringe, and give the middy a whirl.

Here are some of her most memorable hair moments over the years...

At just 23-years-old, Kates style is world away from what we see now. No bouncy blow-dry here for Hugh Van Cutsem and Rose Astors Wedding back in 2005, instead it looks like shes left her brunette locks relatively un-styled.

Another year, another wedding. This time, Kate appears to have used a curling tong to create a bit of movement through the ends of her hair. Its not the glossy bounce we see today, but shes on her way!

After the couple went on a holiday to Kenya, Wills popped the question. And about time, too - theyd been dating eight years! The future Duchess of Cambridge looked incredible for the official engagement announcement in 2010. With thick, glossy waves, she started to show us her new royal style.

Kate Middleton's wedding dress - a look back at her iconic Alexander McQueen bridal gown

We cant imagine how nervous Kate must have been on her big day. With an estimated two BILLION people worldwide tuning in to watch her marry her prince, there was no room for a hair flop. Luckily her favourite stylist James Pryce was on hand to create a beautiful half-up style - accentuated with a delicate veil.

Straying from her favoured loose waves, Kate opted for a side-part chignon back at an NBCUniversal event in 2012. We love how she paired it with statement earrings and a glowing tan. She looked sophisticated and happier than ever.

Back in 2012 Kate opened the Natural History Museums Treasures Gallery, and she showcased her new do at the same time. With tumbling waves and a side-swept fringe, she gave her complexion a youthful boost. We love the darker chocolatey shade as well.

The royal couple welcomed their new baby son into the world in 2013, and although he stole the hearts of our nation, it was Kate who impressed the millions. Shed only just given birth but she looked radiant. We think the subtle waves and honey highlights made it one of her best ever looks.

She tiptoed around the idea of a fringe in 2012 and a few years later she nearly made the jump. With shorter layers, Kate gives the appearance of having much thicker hair - and it prompted women across the country to go for the chop as well (we even gave it a go!).

Kate looked every inch the royal at Ascot this year. She cut an elegant figure in a creamy lace dress and matching fascinator, but it was her hair that won the in the style stakes. Her low bun was pinned to perfection, and the wrap around detail was beautiful.

This week, Kates been out and about in Poland, and shes showed off her latest hairstyle - which has already been dubbed the middy. Shorter than weve seen it before, it looks thick and healthy, and we're guessing that quite a few people will be bringing in her picture to show their hairdressers this summer.