Kate Middleton’s Kira-Style Skirt Was Result Of Lots Of Effort By Kelzan Wangmo And Team

Kate Middleton’s special tribute to Bhutan in her Kira-inspired skirt on Friday, the Day 5 of her and husband Prince William’s royal visit to India and Bhutan, was well-received in the Himalayan region. The fabric for the skirt was sourced from the country by her glam squad. The cloth was woven by a local weaver, Kelzan Wangmo.

The Kira-style skirt was made by Wangmo, who explained the incredible effort that went into creating the item, while speaking to The Telegraph. Wangmo said that it normally takes five people three months to create the fabrics, which are woven by silk and have a price tag of around $1,500.

The reason for the time duration to create a similar skirt is due to the fact that they are made by hand, with no use of machinery. Wangmo said she and her team rely on traditional techniques, from making the texture to dyeing the material. After the Duchess of Cambridge wore the skirt paired with a white floral embroidered Paul & Joe cape, Wangmo was delighted, but revealed that she had no idea it was going to happen.

Wangmo often creates pieces for the Bhutan royal family, mostly for Queen Jetsun Pema. The 25-year-old Bhutanese royal is popularly known as "Kate of the Himalayas" and has a huge influence in the Bhutan fashion world. “Usually royal families request silk, because it’s something expensive and of great value, and so they wear silk,” said the weaver.

She added that in Bhutan, the new mother is a role model and people want to wear what she wears and like to copy her patterns. “Jetsun on occasion will wear intricate patterns, with expensive fabrics, but usually she wears simple Kira designs,” Wangmo reportedly said.

This was Mrs Wangmo's reaction when we told her the news: pic.twitter.com/mbgdAKemp1

— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) April 14, 2016

Kate and William took part in an archery event hosted by Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck and tried their hand at the national game too. The royal couple also tried out several other traditional Bhutanese games. After the event, Kate and William were given an official welcome by King Jigme and Queen Jetsun of Bhutan.