The Princess of Wales revisited a Burberry suit for her recent visits to textile mills in Leeds and Lancaster.
According to Kensington Palace, the Princess has a deep-seated interest in the textile industry, which was evident from her engagements that explored the sector’s heritage, innovations, and its crucial role in the UK’s economy. Her tour began at AW Hainsworth, a notable mill in Pudsey, West Yorkshire.
A video captured her arrival, courtesy of Richard Palmer from The Daily Express.
Simon Perry from People elaborates on the Princess’s familial ties to AW Hainsworth, noting that her paternal ancestors once owned a local woolen manufacturer that merged with Hainsworth in 1958.
During the coronation earlier this year, the anointing screen featured Hainsworth fabrics, and Prince Louis was dressed in a Garter Tunic made from Hainsworth doeskin.
AW Hainsworth prides itself on being a vertically integrated mill that caters to various sectors, including fashion and the military, notably producing fabrics for the Grenadier Guards’ uniforms.
The Princess’s visit included a tour of the mill, where she observed the traditional machinery and techniques that are still pivotal to the industry. She met with Zeb Akhtar, Senior Weaver Trainer, who shared insights into the weaving processes.
Rebecca English from The Daily Mail reported that the Princess was quite taken with the tactile experience of handling freshly-woven Merino wool, expressing her fondness for its texture and aroma.
Her second stop was at Standfast & Barracks in Lancaster, where she continued her exploration of the textile industry.
Founded in 1924, Standfast & Barracks is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and innovation in textile printing, aiming for Net Zero emissions by 2030.
The visit highlighted the collaborative efforts between Standfast & Barracks and House of Hackney to develop sustainable materials, underscoring the growing consumer demand for ethically sourced products.
Throughout her engagements, the Princess showcased her ongoing support for the British textile industry, emphasizing its historical significance and future potential.
