Kate Middleton was spotted wearing a little something every mother just wants to end already.
They started in the US. Then found their way into Britain.
And finally, cemented themselves in Australian and New Zealand playgrounds in December.
Just when they started to fade out, and every mother started to rejoice, the Duchess of Cambridge wore one.
And now, loom bands are once again booming. In fact, they are no longer just for the playground. They are the must-have fashion item – even for grown ups.
Thanks, Kate.
During the royal tour of Australia and New Zealand, Kate was spotted wearing a loom band while in New Zealand (a gift her and Prince William received from two New Zealand girls).
And since then, reports from UK's largest craft retailer, Hobbycraft, say that sales of the rubber band bracelet has sky rocketed by 331%. The Kate effect strikes again. And if that isn't enough, they also occupy every top 20 spot on Amazon's bestselling toy chart.
And close to follow on her heels is her step-mother-in-law. Camila, Duchess of Cornwall, was spotted wearing the high fashion item in May.
If loom bands are yet to enter your house (be prepared, they will now), they are simple, colourful, rubber bands, and are weaved together to make friendship bracelets.
CLICK THROUGH the gallery to see Kate accepting all her gifts from the crowds:
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