In recent months, Kate Middleton has debuted a noticeably lighter shade of hair for the first time. After her bright blonde look drew widespread attention, the 43-year-old Princess of Wales is finally sharing what inspired the shift.

On Wednesday, Middleton appeared at the Royal Variety Performance in London, attending the event with Prince William.

While there, she spoke with actress Su Pollard, who was curious about the princess’s new hair color.

Pollard, 76, said she complimented the royal by telling her, “I like your hair, it looks a lot lighter,” according to the Daily Mail.

Middleton reportedly replied, “It used to be brown, but it’s gone light in the sunshine.”

A First for the Princess of Wales

Back in September, Middleton stepped out with William, 43, at the Natural History Museum gardens in London, where she revealed her new honey-toned look.

It was the first time the princess had ever been seen wearing such a light shade on her long, thick hair.

However, just two days later, at the Women’s Rugby World Cup, her hair appeared noticeably darker once again — seemingly returning her to her classic brunette hue.

A Heartfelt Exchange With Jessie J

During the Royal Variety Performance this week, Middleton also shared a touching moment with singer Jessie J.

After the event, Jessie J, 37, explained that she and the princess were talking about their personal experiences with cancer.

According to The Independent, the singer — whose full name is Jessica Cornish — said, “Mum to mum, who has just recently gone through cancer, I just wanted to give her a hug.”

She continued, “We acknowledged that it’s something that is not easy to go through, especially in the public eye.”