The Gist
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Princess Charlotte is expected to have a multi-billion dollar influence on the U.K. economy.
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Her impact has thus been dubbed the “Charlotte effect.”
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The young royal’s emerging sense of style has so far included a penchant for blue nail polish and half-up, half-down hairstyles.
Princess Charlotte has long been considered Kate Middleton’s mini-me, and according to one royal expert, that comparison even extends to the duo’s economic influence. Today, the so-called “Kate Middleton effect” contributes an estimated $1.35 billion per year to the U.K. economy, according to Town & Country. Charlotte’s influence could one day rival that.
“Her influence, known as the ‘Charlotte effect,’ helps drive sales,” royal expert Sharon Carpenter told US Weekly. “It’s estimated that Charlotte will be worth between a whopping 3 and 4 billion pounds to the U.K. economy over her lifetime—way more than even her brother George, who will one day be king.”
Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte on Easter Sunday in 2026.
Credit: Getty Images
Another royal expert seconded Carpenter’s confidence in the princess’s future impact, noting that Charlotte will likely begin doing official royal engagements once she turns 18. “As she gets through her teens, there will be talk of her being an asset,” Marlene Koenig said, “and the secret weapon for the royal family.”
Though she is still quite a few years away from becoming a full-time working royal (a future that is, by the way, not necessarily set in stone), the princess has already earned a reputation for being “the one in charge,” Koenig added.
The Wales family at the “Together at Christmas” carol service in December 2025.
Credit: Getty Images
“They’ve watched Charlotte grow into a smart, confident and funny girl who knows how to hold her own both in the spotlight and outside of it,” Carpenter explained, referring to the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Princess Charlotte and Kate Middleton at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in July 2025.
Credit: Getty Images
Charlotte is currently third in line to the British throne after her dad Prince William and her older brother Prince George. Her emerging sense of style has so far included a penchant for blue nail polish and half-up, half-down hairstyles. And, much like her mother, Charlotte is also a big fan of recycling her outfits. We love a sustainable princess.
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