Royal Watch News

Kate Middleton leaving Britain?

Jan 19, 2009, 10:55 GMT

Britain's Prince William's girlfriend is moving to New York.

Kate Middleton is reportedly planning to work at a leading US fashion house while William is away on RAF training after taking advice from designer Tom Ford and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.

A source close to Kate - who has been criticised for her lack of career direction - said: "Until recently Kate would not have had any great desire to work in the US but things have changed. With William doing his own thing, she too wants to expand her horizons and this is the time to do it, when she has few other responsibilities."

The source told Britain's Daily Express newspaper "She's loved working for her parents and particularly spending time with her mum Carole at home but she's a bright girl and wants to experience new things before the time comes when she won't be able to have any sort of ordinary life.

"She's got a really encouraging mentor in Anna Wintour who has told her a few months' experience learning about fashion in New York would be great for her. And Anna is a formidable presence over there; someone who would look after Kate and make sure no one takes advantage of her."

Kate, 27 - who has previously worked as an accessories buyer for fashion chain Jigsaw - is currently employed by her parents' firm Party Pieces.