Princess Kate Becomes Harriet Phillips’s Royal Role Model as Peter Phillips’s Wife Reveals Their Special Bond and Striking Similarities

Harriet Phillips has offered a rare glimpse into her relationship with the Princess of Wales, revealing that she frequently turns to Kate Middleton for advice as she adjusts to life within the extended Royal Family.

The 46-year-old former NHS nurse married Princess Anne’s son, Peter Phillips, on June 6 at All Saints Church in Kemble, Gloucestershire, in a ceremony she described as a “slice of heaven”.

Now, in her first major interview since the wedding, Harriet has spoken warmly about her connection with the future Queen, describing Kate as “open-hearted” and someone she can approach for guidance.

But their relationship goes beyond royal advice. From charitable interests to fashion choices and even their favourite outdoor activities, the two women appear to have a surprising amount in common.

Harriet Phillips Reveals How Princess Kate Has Helped Her

Speaking to HELLO!, Harriet acknowledged the support she has received from Kate while navigating her new position within the royal circle.

Although Peter Phillips does not carry out official duties as a working royal, his family connections have brought Harriet into the spotlight at major royal gatherings.

Kate’s experience of adjusting to royal life after marrying Prince William in 2011 makes her a particularly valuable source of advice.

The two women also share similar backgrounds, having grown up in Berkshire and Gloucestershire respectively.

Their strongest connection, however, may be their commitment to supporting young children and families.

A Shared Passion for Children’s Wellbeing

Before marrying Peter, Harriet spent 24 years working in healthcare, specialising in paediatric nursing and infant mental health.

She has now stepped away from her NHS career and taken on a new charitable role as patron of Home-Start Cotswolds, which supports families raising young children.

Harriet explained that the appointment felt like a natural continuation of her professional experience.

“Over time, I’ve become increasingly passionate about the importance of promoting healthy brain development,” she said.

Her interests closely align with Kate’s longstanding early childhood work.

The Princess of Wales established the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood in 2021, focusing on the importance of children’s earliest years and the support available to parents.

Harriet believes her new role will allow her to apply her healthcare knowledge in a different setting, describing the transition as “a natural step, rather than a complete change of direction”.

From Royal Ascot to Easter: Their Fashion Choices Have Drawn Comparisons

Harriet and Kate also share an appreciation for several British fashion labels.

Both have worn designs from Beulah London, ME+EM and Self-Portrait, while Harriet has incorporated accessories from brands associated with the Princess of Wales.

At a royal Easter service, Harriet wore a blue polka-dot outfit by Beulah London, accessorised with pieces from Kiki McDonough, Emmy London and Jane Taylor.

The ensemble drew comparisons with Kate’s polished royal wardrobe, particularly the blue-and-white Jenny Packham dress she wore following Prince George’s birth in 2013.

Their style similarities attracted further attention at Royal Ascot, where both women were spotted carrying Anya Hindmarch clutches.

Harriet’s wedding dress also invited comparisons with Kate’s iconic 2011 bridal gown, although each reflected its wearer’s individual style.

Even Their Favourite Ways to Relax Are Similar

Beyond fashion and charity work, Harriet and Kate share an enthusiasm for wild swimming.

Kate previously revealed her love of cold-water swimming during a 2023 appearance on Mike Tindall’s podcast The Good, The Bad And The Rugby.

“The colder, the better. I absolutely love it,” she explained, joking that Prince William sometimes thought she was crazy for swimming in cold, rainy conditions.

Harriet similarly identified cold-water swimming as one of her favourite ways to unwind.

Both women have also expressed affection for Balmoral and the outdoors, adding another connection to their developing relationship.

Harriet Finds Her Place Within the Royal Family

Harriet’s journey into royal life follows years devoted to her career, daughter and personal faith.

In a previous essay for Woman Alive, she reflected on raising her daughter as a single mother and the challenges that shaped their close relationship.

Her marriage to Peter Phillips has introduced a new chapter, bringing additional public attention alongside opportunities to support charitable causes.

With Kate offering guidance and their shared interest in early childhood development providing common ground, Harriet appears to be finding her own place within the wider royal family.

Rather than simply following the Princess of Wales’s example, Harriet is drawing on her own professional experience while benefiting from the advice of someone who understands the demands of royal life.