Kensington Palace is going through a major change in its key staff as Natasha Archer, a deeply trusted personal assistant and unofficial stylist to Princess Kate for 15 years, has decided to leave. Archer, often called a “tower of strength” for the Princess, is stepping away from her respected position to start her own private consulting business.
Archer’s departure observes the end of an era defined by loyalty, careful attention to detail, and a major influence on the public image of the Princess of Wales. Her decision to start her own private consulting business begins a new chapter for both Archer and the royal family.
In 2019, Archer was honored with the Royal Victorian Order for her dedicated service to the royal family. This high-ranking award is a personal gift from the monarch and recognizes exceptional service to the royal household.
Princess Kate’s reaction to the loss
The royal household has reportedly supported her decision, and they have shared their best wishes for her new venture. Archer began working for Princess Kate in 2010 when she was hired as a personal assistant for both the Princess and Prince William. Over the years, “Tash,” as she is warmly known, became an essential part of Kate’s inner circle, especially after the future queen’s promise to look after her sister.
Her responsibilities grew over time, and she was recently promoted to senior private executive assistant to the Prince and Princess, a role that included managing clothing choices, schedules, and projects. This promotion was widely seen as a clear recognition of her loyalty and outstanding service.
Princess Kate promoted Natasha Archer to ‘senior private executive assistant’ https://t.co/khlqA0lJvK pic.twitter.com/4LjLXRktF7
— Kaiser@Celebitchy (@KaiseratCB) June 11, 2024
Archer played a crucial role in shaping Kate’s globally admired royal style. It is said that the late Queen herself suggested hiring Archer as Kate’s stylist to help make sure her wardrobe looked “royal.” Archer successfully helped Kate move from being seen as a “Sloane Ranger” (a term for a certain type of upper-class Londoner) to becoming a true fashion icon. She encouraged Kate to try new styles, introducing her to designers like Jenny Packham, who remains one of Kate’s favorites.
Archer also persuaded her to wear shorter hemlines, culottes, and wide-legged trousers. She carefully searched websites for fashion trends, ordered clothes for fittings, and even took on tasks like ironing the royal wardrobe and handling luggage during tours. Her dedication to Kate’s appearance went further—she touched up makeup during flights and even helped update Prince William’s wardrobe, famously convincing him to stop wearing his white Asics sneakers after critics commented on his style.
Archer’s support for Princess Kate went far beyond fashion. She was a steady presence during important personal and public moments. In 2013, she was seen arriving at the Lindo Wing of St. Mary’s Hospital with an outfit and a baby seat just before Prince George was born, showing how close she was to the royal family during private milestones. More recently, when Kate was recovering from major abdominal surgery in January 2024 and later undergoing cancer treatment, Archer was a vital source of support.
She was one of the few people who visited the Princess at The London Clinic and was spotted driving away from the hospital soon after Kate was discharged, with gifts and flowers on the passenger seat. Royal experts have pointed out that Archer was a reliable and always-available confidante, acting as a “pillar of strength” for Kate during this difficult time.
