Princess Kako Appears in an Elegant Dress from a Favorite Brand as Two Shifts Shape Her Busy Days

Amid growing discussion over potential revisions to the Imperial House Law,
she continues to take part in official duties on a near-daily basis.

Her smile shone just as brightly as the vivid dress she wore.

“Princess Kako’s number of official duties is among the highest in the Imperial Family. More than 130 engagements are scheduled this year as well,” said a reporter covering the Imperial Household Agency for a national newspaper. Princess Kako (31), the second daughter of the Akishino family, carried out official duties energetically even during Golden Week. Along with her dedication, her fashion choices have also drawn attention.

On May 7, she attended an event with her mother, Princess Kiko (59), wearing a black all-in-one dress adorned with cattleya flowers (second photo). Two days later, on the 9th, she carried out official duties in a contrasting outfit: a white one-piece dress decorated with camellia flowers (first photo).

“Princess Kako is a fashion icon within the Imperial Family. For the May 7 engagement, she wore a dress from Osaka-based brand ‘ADELLY’ worth about 70,000 yen, and on the 9th she wore a dress from Kobe-based brand ‘Viaggio Blu,’ which she has recently favored, worth about 60,000 yen. In particular, she has worn a different color version of the May 7 dress during overseas official visits. It seems to be a favorite of hers—she likely bought it in multiple colors,” said the above-mentioned reporter.

During the May 7 event, she was seen smiling and chatting with Princess Kiko, appearing in good spirits. Behind her smile, there were said to be two changes.

The first change concerns her relationship with Princess Kiko. In less than a month since April began, she has carried out official duties with her mother on five occasions. Although media reports once suggested that their relationship became strained following the marriage of their eldest daughter Mako Komuro (34) and her husband Kei Komuro (34), their current relationship appears to be very good. Imperial commentator Shinji Yamashita explains:

“Princess Kiko will turn 60 in September. Princess Kako is currently 31. While it is unclear when she will marry, she likely wishes to stay close to her mother for as long as they can be together. As Princess Kako has grown older, she may have come to better understand her mother’s feelings.”

The second change concerns the environment surrounding marriage. The National Diet is currently discussing revisions to the Imperial House Law. One proposal would allow female members of the Imperial Family to retain their status after marriage. However, Mr. Yamashita notes: “Whether or not to remain in the Imperial Family would ultimately be left to the individual’s decision. That also means the responsibility for that choice falls on them. Whichever choice is made, criticism is likely, making marriage even more difficult. Prince Akishino is also likely concerned about such a situation.”

The revision could be passed as early as this year. This has led to speculation about a sudden marriage announcement before the law is revised. Noriko Tsuge, a part-time lecturer at Seibu Bunri University and author of “The True Face of Princess Kako,” says: “It would not be surprising if an announcement comes at any time.”

“With Prince Hisahito having come of age last year, I believe Princess Kako may also be considering her next stage in life. The Deaflympics in Tokyo, which she had focused on, have also concluded successfully. A sudden announcement could come at any time. Princess Kako previously stated, ‘I have no intention of commenting on my partner.’ While we do not know what is happening behind the scenes, it would not be surprising if marriage discussions are progressing.”

Wearing her favorite dresses, announcing a new chapter in her life—such a day may not be far away.

From the May 29, 2026 issue of “FRIDAY”