Kate Middleton
PROFILED BY Manilka Ediriweera
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, has cemented her status as a fashion icon with many showstopping looks that range from puffy jackets and hiking boots to culottes and evening gowns. Kate (as she is popularly known) came into the limelight in 2004 and was soon under the scrutiny of millions of people around the world when she was spotted walking arm in arm with Prince William.
Since then, she’s been blessing our eyes with a perfectly put together and polished look, which complements her beauty and sense of grace. Whether she is wearing a coat, a summer dress or an elegant evening gown, Kate Middleton portrays an effortlessly chic appeal, making her one of the most stylish and impeccably dressed royals.
The duchess’ style has created a phenomenon called the ‘Kate effect’ where the sales of brands she likes tend to skyrocket. Likewise, the designs she favours sell out in minutes.
Here are some stylish lessons that we can learn from this fashionista – indeed, you can copy her signature style and become another fashion icon in society.
DRESSES The duchess has been spotted wearing A-line and lace dresses on numerous occasions – such as for official engagements, weddings, garden parties and even Royal Ascot. These ‘nipped in the waist’ A-line dresses in flared skirts are ideal for every body shape while lace dresses are a perfect choice if you wish to look like royalty. Kate has proven that you can never go wrong with A-line and lace dresses while taking elegance to the next level with her outfits.
POLO NECKS Middleton manages to look stunning and effortlessly chic every time she wears a polo neck (a.k.a. turtleneck). She often pairs a black turtleneck with either a jacket or coat, in bright shades of blue, burgundy or green.
NUDE HEELS It’s safe to say that the nude L. K. Bennett Sledge pumps are an all-time favourite of Kate’s. She has worn these nude pumps on multiple occasions with monochromatic outfits, bright coat dresses and printed outfits. Nude heels accentuate your ensemble – and they make your legs look longer.
EVENING GOWNS Every time the duchess steps out in an evening gown, she attracts the attention of millions of fans and followers around the world. The satin gown by Sarah Burton – which she wore for her wedding reception – the Jenny Packham embellished floor-length dress she wore in 2011 and the blue gown by the same designer are some of the showstopping evenings dresses that Kate has worn over the years.
JEANS AND BLAZERS As much as she looks stunning in elegant evening gowns and designer dresses, Kate also pulls off the casual look perfectly. She gives the whole outfit a casual yet polished feel by pairing polo necks and blouses with skinny jeans, or pants and blazers.
HATS GALORE She’s proven time and again that her hat game is strong with her simple and chic headgear. Out of her enormous headwear collection, the Philip Treacy hat she wore for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding, as well as the rosy pink Jane Corbett hat with lace and bow embellishments, stand out for their intricate designs.
KATE MIDDLETON’S STYLE RULE BOOK
- Opt for calm and light-coloured floor-length dresses for functions at night
- Experiment with headwear
- Don’t be afraid to don bright coloured clothes
- Never hesitate to recycle your outfits
- Invest in a comfortable pair of heels
- If the heels fit, buy many of the same in different colours
- You can’t go wrong with lace and A-line dresses
- Striped T-shirts never go out of style