Like Diana, Kate is a style icon and the veritable embodiment of the People’s Princess. Observers believe her marriage to Prince William earned the British royal family more affection than it had recently. Still, how much do we know about the rising star of the British monarchy? Here are glimpses into the surreal life of Kate Middleton thus far.
She Had An Ordinary Childhood
Catherine (Kate) Middleton was born on January 9, 1982, to proud parents Michael and Carole Middleton. Her parents met and fell in love while working as flight attendants for British Airways. In 1987, they founded a mail-order business that sold supplies for children’s parties. Catherine and her two younger siblings (Pippa and James) had a quiet, ordinary upbringing in Bucklebury, Berkshire.
The success of the family business and some family inheritance enabled Catherine to attend St. Andrew’s, an excellent prep school, and on to the highly-esteemed Marlborough College later. Kate was an accomplished student, excelling in academics and sports.
She Attends The University Of St. Andrews
In 2001, Kate signed up for a degree in History of Art at the University of St. Andrews. The beautiful brunette would have scarcely known how the innocuous choice of a university would completely transform her life.
It was where she met fellow art history student, Prince William, who was at the time second in line to the British throne. The romance between them grew steadily - fortunately, the press was none the wiser yet.
Kate And William Were Housemates
Kate and William were housemates before they started dating. They hung out in the same circle of friends, most of whom lived in the same cottage. Everyone in the flat got on very well. Kate and Prince William gradually grew very close, and the relationship blossomed organically from then.
The pair saw more of each other and hung out more often. Regardless of how or where the couple first met, it was fate that they would end up together.
Kate And William Have A Moment
Although sparks had been flying, Kate and Prince William remained friends for a while. Things changed in 2002, during a student fashion show when Kate walked the ramp in a sheer outfit. Rumor has it that William began to see her in a completely different light, and that’s when they went from friends to something more – or at least that’s what the world would like to believe.
On his part, Prince William maintained that the turning point in their relationship developed gradually after spending more time together.
The Love Story Begins
Kate and Prince William began dating in 2002. The couple kept things incredibly discreet until 2004 when they went public with the relationship while vacationing together in Switzerland. How did the couple manage to keep their relationship a secret?
It was primarily due to a gentleman’s agreement between the royal family and newspaper editors. As a result, the pair remained safe in a bubble of privacy, free from tabloid scrutiny for most of their days at St. Andrews.
She Moves To London After University
Of course, the media attention intensified as soon as Kate graduated from university. She accepted a job as a junior buyer with a fashion chain, Jigsaw, and set up a home in London. Her royal beau had meanwhile joined the military and thrown himself into training. Kate's sudden celebrity status may not have been easy, but she handled the press scrutiny with poise.
Despite intrusions by the paparazzi. Kate kept to herself and attempted a semblance of private life. She took on different roles at her parents’ company and did a lot of charity work during this period.
Her First Public Appearance
Kate continued being the subject of intense media fascination. Despite the overwhelming press interest, the couple’s romance appeared to be going from strength to strength. In 2006, Kate made her first public appearance with the royal family.
She and her family attended the Sovereign’s Parade at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst. Kate joined the royal family in supporting Prince William, who was part of the parade. Her presence signaled to the world that the relationship was the real deal.
Engagement Rumors And Mania
Soon enough, the press spotted Kate joining William, and his father and brother, on several holidays. Speculation about an engagement announcement made the rounds like wildfire. One store went ahead of itself and even commissioned memorabilia around the imminent event. Safe to say that nobody saw what was coming instead.
In April 2007, the tabloids announced that the royal pair had gone their separate ways. The news came as a shock to even the most dedicated followers of the royal romance thus far.
Conjectures On The Royal Split
Tabloid newspapers were rife with speculation on the couple’s split – some reports were cautious, while others were downright salacious. Anonymous sources weighed in regularly. One report went so far as to claim that Prince William had met someone “much more exciting.”
Some insiders had the right handle on the situation. An anonymous source close to Kate believed it was just a break. It wouldn’t be the last we would see of the couple.
Kate And William Rekindle The Romance
As predicted, the separation did not last long. By June 2007, news buzzed about the couple having rekindled their romance. A month later, Kate and her mother attended the Concert for Diana at Wembley Stadium, which seemed to confirm the couple was back together. Still, Kate and Prince William sat two rows apart and insisted they were “good friends” and nothing more.
The couple presumably decided to keep their second chance at a relationship out of the spotlight. Unlike before, they stopped visiting their old haunts, and the world rarely saw them in public together.
Trouble With Paparazzi
Too often, the paparazzi accosted Kate – a troubling repetition of history that gravely concerned Prince William. A royal family spokesperson told newspapers how the prince wanted more than anything for the press to stop harassing Kate. In late 2007, Kate left her job at Jigsaw and took on a production role in her parents’ company.
It allowed her to spend more time with Prince William – supporting him at polo matches and attending family events. The couple frequently went on holidays overseas, their relationship growing again in strength.
Kate Trains To Cross The English Channel
In 2007, Kate briefly trained with The Sisterhood, an all-woman dragon-boat crew preparing to cross the English Channel for charity. The future Duchess joined the training on a friend’s invitation. Kate, an already accomplished sportswoman, was keen to compete since the race supported charity. The prospect was exciting since the team was racing against an all-male crew.
Kate had to withdraw from the event due to grave security concerns. She was reportedly upset but decided to drop out after considering the safety of the team as a whole. The paparazzi had become such a nightmare that Kate's lawyers issued a warning to respect her privacy.
Kate At Her Parents’ Company
The Middleton siblings, notably Kate, played a decisive role in shaping their parents’ company. As children, Kate and her siblings modeled for the company catalog and helped develop new categories for the brand. Several catalogs featured Pippa and Kate holding cupcakes and wearing t-shirts with their ages printed.
A CNN report later revealed that in 2008, Kate spearheaded the launch of a new babies’ parties division in the company, which also supported a charity called Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Her Allergy to Horses
Kate is among the few in the royal family who has ever been on horseback. Unlike Prince William, she never learned horse riding as a child or grew up around them. In 2009, the Duchess told Australian author Katty Lette that she is severely allergic to horses.
Reports say the Duchess is actively working to overcome her allergy. She has made it a point to spend more time with horses. Kate has also been photographed around horses and will pat them on occasion.
When The Queen Broke Protocol For Kate
In the summer of 2009, Kate and the Queen spent quality time together on a family trip to Balmoral. The two seem to have got on well, evident in how the late Queen broke protocol and permitted Kate to take photos of the estate.
It was an unprecedented generous gesture by the late Queen since Kate and Prince William were not married then. Kate must have done something right for someone as composed as the Queen to let her guard down.
“Waity Katie”
It wasn’t long before media speculation about the couple’s marriage plans resumed. Days passed, and the months turned into years without so much as a peep about wedding bells. During this time, an evidently exasperated British media began calling her “Waity Katie.” Thankfully, the wait and name-calling would not last much longer.
In October 2010, Prince William popped the question to Kate while they were holidaying in Kenya. Kate would later describe to the press how romantic the engagement was. Prince William gave her the same sapphire ring his mother, the late Princess Diana, wore when she got engaged - his way of ensuring his mother did not miss out on that moment.
The Royal Couple Announce Their Engagement
In November 2010, the royal family issued a public statement announcing the engagement of Prince William to Catherine Middleton. The prince had informed the queen and other close members of the family. He had also sought permission from Kate’s father.
The happy couple later appeared at a press conference, stating that the timing was right. In preparation for her new life and entry into the royal family, Kate assumed the more formal name - Catherine.
Kate And William Chat With The Press
Kate and Prince William appeared in a series of interviews after their engagement. In one of them, Kate described how she blushed a "bright red," and scurried off shyly when she met the prince for the first time at university.
The future Duchess shared how they eventually became good friends, even though the prince did not participate in Fresher’s Week. He was conspicuously absent the first few weeks, so it took time for the couple to get to know each other.
Kate Did Not Have Pictures Of William
The royal romance piqued the curiosity of many an eager fan, and with a relationship as high profile as this one - gossip was rife. One of the rumors was that Kate had pictures of the prince plastered across the walls of her room.
The Duchess quashed the rumors once and for all during the engagement interview in 2010. The only poster she had was of the Levis guy, she countered. Prince William jokingly added that it was probably him in Levis.
Kate And The Queen
During the 2010 post-engagement video, Kate revealed that she officially met the late Queen only five years after she started dating Prince William. Their first formal introduction was at the wedding of Peter Philips (son of Princess Anne). Her revelation came as a surprise to many.
Kate had previously attended several events where the late Queen was present. Reports later clarified that the late Queen may have steered clear of a formal introduction since the couple was still working out their relationship in the first five years.
The Demand For Her Engagement Dress
The news about Kate and Prince William’s engagement was a big deal. Fashion enthusiasts were especially keen on the blue dress that Kate wore to the announcement. The staggering number of people who wanted to get their hands on it meant the brand could not keep up with sales and inventory.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, the designer shared how her small 25-person staff struggled to keep up with the demand. The brand went out of business two years later.
The Royal Wedding
On April 29, 2011, Kate left her past life as a commoner behind and officially joined the British royal family. The wedding of the century took place at Westminster Abbey with an estimated global audience of 3 billion people. All eyes were on the radiant bride, who looked stunning in an Alexander McQueen dress.
Her silk dress with ivory lace featured four distinct motifs – rose, shamrock, thistle, and daffodil – representing the four countries in the United Kingdom. With a price tag of approximately $34 million, the royal wedding was one of the most lavish nuptials in history.
An Homage To Princess Diana
English brides abide by a timeless tradition where they must carry “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue” on their wedding day. Like others before her, Kate honored this tradition in her own way. Her “something old” was the Alexander McQueen bridal gown that featured traditional Irish lace-making techniques. The diamond earrings gifted by her parents were her “something new.”
For “something blue,” Kate honored the later Princess Diana by sewing a blue ribbon into her dress. Princess Diana had a similar blue ribbon sewn to her gown when she married Prince Charles in 1981.
Her Hair On Her Wedding Day
Being a royal might open doors to the world’s best designers, but it also comes with countless fashion rules. News reports alleged that the royal family strongly advised Kate to wear her hair up for the royal wedding, the way Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth did for theirs. The half-up-half-down style for weddings was frowned upon in royal circles.
Kate had her heart set on wearing her hair down with flowing curls. It was her favorite way to wear her hair, and Prince William loved it on her too.
Royal Titles And Trips
Kate walked out of Westminster Abbey as the Duchess of Cambridge. In June 2011, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge set out on their first international trip for the British royal family.
Kate and Prince William traveled to Canada for a series of appearances. The couple also traveled to America, where they attended a red-carpet event in Los Angeles, California.
Scandals And Press Feuds
Among the biggest scandals that Kate encountered was in 2012, when French tabloids published topless photos of her while holidaying in France. The Duchess was sunbathing in a secluded villa when paparazzi captured photos using a long lens camera.
Royal aides issued a strongly worded statement, comparing the incident to the worst excesses of the press during the life of Diana. The royal couple sued Closer magazine and the newspaper La Provence for $1.9 million in damages. French courts also granted the couple an injunction against publishers of the images.
Kate And William's Announcement
On December 3, 2012, St James’s Palace announced that Kate and Prince William were expecting their first child. The delight was universal, but the announcement came early in her pregnancy for another reason. Kate was suffering from severe pregnancy sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum that needed hospitalization.
Three days after the announcement, the press spotted the royal couple leaving the hospital after Kate had undergone her treatment. The severe sickness continued to take a toll on Kate until her final trimester.
Prince George Is Born
On July 22, 2013, the couple welcomed their first son, Prince George Alexander Louis into the world. Named after Queen Elizabeth’s father and grandfather, the boy will reign as King George VII by the end of the 21st century. The country celebrated the prince’s arrival with gun salutes in the Tower of London and Green Park.
The bells at Westminster Abbey rang for three hours. The new parents showed off their little boy in a photocall outside St. Mary’s Hospital in London before heading to the Middleton family home.
The Controversy Around Her Dressmaker
Fans are continually looking out for what Kate wears – catapulting many a designer to fame and success. During a 2012 tour of the Pacific, the Duchess stepped out wearing a yellow cotton lace dress. Fans could not figure out who had designed the dress. Many people believed she chose to wear something without a brand name since she perhaps couldn’t find something she liked from the Solomon Islands.
A year later, the palace revealed that Kate had a private dressmaker who made her a peach maternity dress. Fans quickly connected the dots. Some took offense, saying it prevents British businesses from benefitting from the Kate Middleton effect.
Prince George’s First Royal Tour
In 2014, the royal couple embarked on a three-week royal tour of Australia and New Zealand and decided to bring Prince George - their first tour as a family of three. Kate’s express wish was to have her son spend as much time as possible outside the palace walls.
She wanted him to experience life the same way she did growing up. A royal tour was far from ‘normal,' but it gave the prince an excellent head start, regardless.
Princess Charlotte’s Arrival
In September 2014, the royal couple announced that Kate was expecting a second child. Once again, the announcement came much before the 12-week mark. The Duchess took violently ill due to her pregnancy sickness, missing a series of public engagements. On May 2, 2015, Princess Charlotte was born at 8.34 am, weighing 8lb 3oz.
Kate gave birth again at St. Mary’s hospital, calling on the same team of doctors as before. Since it was a natural birth, Kate and Prince William left the hospital just hours after she had given birth. She would later describe how she preferred labor over her severe pregnancy sickness. At least labor had an end in sight, the Duchess said.
Meanwhile, Outside The Hospital
The public was overjoyed when they heard the news of Kate’s second pregnancy. As the due date approached, a group of die-hard royalists camped outside St. Mary’s Hospital in London for weeks - sleeping in tents across the street from the hospital, hoping for a glimpse of the second baby.
On learning about this, the royal couple sent pastries and hot coffee to people at the makeshift camp. If they were going to camp out all night, the least they could do was make it as warm as possible.
A Change Of Scenery For The Family
Following Princess Charlotte’s birth, the royal couple decided to leave London and move to a remote country home that same year. The 10-bedroom Anmer Hall was a wedding gift from the Queen - reportedly offering the family some much-needed privacy and normalcy.
Kate and Prince William could walk into the village with the children without being bothered. Residents never tried to chat them up or trouble them for pictures – which was why the couple (especially Kate) loved this part of the country.
Kate Middleton’s Favorite TV shows
One might wonder about the life of royals and whether they get any downtime from their immensely-busy schedules – particularly for Kate, thrust suddenly into the spotlight. During an address at the 2015 BAFTAs, Prince William shared that both he and Kate liked to unwind to “Downton Abbey” (2010-2015) and “Homeland” (2011 – 2020).
“Game of Thrones” (2011 – 2019) was another of Kate’s favorites. That same year, Kate visited the set of “Downton Abbey” at Ealing Studios in London.
Vacations And Royal Tours
In March 2016, the family of four went on their first vacation together, skiing in the French Alps. According to reports, it was the first time that Prince George and Princess Charlotte had played in the snow. By all accounts, the two thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Later that year, the wonderful family of four embarked on another adventure abroad – this time, on a royal tour to Canada. They spent eight days in Canada, marking their first successful royal tour together.
When She Skipped Presenting The Shamrocks
In 2016, Kate broke convention by choosing to stay at home with her children instead of presenting the shamrocks to the 1st battalion of Irish Guards on St. Patricks Day - a long-standing tradition started by Queen Victoria to commemorate English support for Ireland during the Boer War.
Observers ridiculed the Duchess for skipping the event while her husband attended. The palace released a statement saying she could not make it because she was prioritizing time with her children before a hectic tour to India and Bhutan the next month.
She Made Chutney For The Queen
Gifting thoughtful Christmas presents every year is tough, so imagine having to get a gift for a Queen. In a 2016 documentary, Kate revealed how worried she had been about an appropriate gift for the Queen during her first Christmas at Sandringham. She thought back to what she would give her grandparents and decided she would make something.
The Duchess finally zeroed in on her grandmother’s recipe for chutney. Things could have gone horribly wrong, of course. Kate noticed it on the table the next day, much to her delight and relief.
Her “Controversial” Fashion Choices
Some of Kate’s most controversial moments have involved fashion. Who else remembers the time when she (gasp!) wore wedges? Kate created a stir within the royal household when she wore wedges while on a royal visit to a cider farm.
Everyone, including the fashion police, found nothing wrong with her look. But the Queen wasn’t a big fan of wedges. Since then, Kate allegedly began wearing them only to events where the Queen wasn’t present.
Kate And Meghan Markle
In January 2017, Kate and Meghan met at a gathering in Kensington Palace. Meghan and Harry had been dating for over six months then, but the relationship was growing serious. By all accounts, the first meeting between them went well.
Meghan visited a day after Kate’s birthday, and she came bearing a gift. She gave the Duchess a Smythson notebook - a heartfelt gesture that Kate appreciated. Meghan had already met Prince William two months before meeting Kate.
The Sisters-In-Law Bond Over Proper Lunch
In March 2017, Prince Harry brought Meghan to meet Prince William and Kate for lunch at Norfolk. It was the first time Kate and Meghan got to know each other well. Before the lunch, the two had bumped into each other several times while at Kensington Palace but only made small talk.
Sources said Kate welcomed Meghan with open arms. The media would continue publishing several reports about their friendship. Kate considered Meghan a “breath of fresh air” while Meghan saw the Duchess as a friend, helping her navigate this very different world.
The Family Moves Back To London
After a few blissful years in the country, the couple announced in 2017 that they were officially moving back to London and Kensington Palace. They planned on major renovations, with plans to build an enormous basement extension to the property.
Kate and Prince William soon settled back into London life. The couple remained busy with family and official engagements, but they made it a point to enjoy some downtime. Among their favorite ways to unwind was ordering takeout curry and watching "Game of Thrones" and "Homeland" once the kids were asleep.
Prince Louis' Birth
On September 4, 2017, Kate and Prince William announced they were expecting baby number 3. The royal statement was similar to the previous two pregnancies – the family was delighted, but Kate was suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum. On April 23, 2018, Prince Louis was born in the same hospital wing as his older siblings.
Supermom Kate presented her new baby to the world just seven hours after giving birth. The little prince was born a few weeks before Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding.
A Patron Of The Arts
Kate loves photography and is an honorary member of the Royal Photographic Society. Several of Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte’s official portraits have been their mother’s handiwork. She is known for taking candid photos that capture milestones like the first day of school, the first baby steps, and other occasions like birthdays.
In 2018, the Duchess became the first royal patron of the distinguished Victoria and Albert Museum in London - a fitting relationship for someone keen on photography, visual arts, and design. Kate has also been a long-standing patron of the National Portrait Gallery.
Team Kate Or Team Meghan?
The first reports of alleged tension between Kate and Meghan came out in March 2018. A correspondent for Vanity Fair shared that the two women are friendly and spend a lot of time with each other. Meghan seemed to enjoy spending time with Kate and the children. Any animosity was likely fabrication by the media.
Still, there was a strong indication that the two were not feuding but decidedly not the best of friends yet. Kate and Meghan were different people with varying interests. On her part, Meghan seemed keen to establish her circle of friends while also spending time with Kate.
Kate Breaks Down
Prince Harry and Meghan got married in May 2018. Days before the royal wedding, media outlets published a story that Kate was emotionally distressed. Sources told the press that Kate broke down and was in tears after a bridesmaid’s dress fitting for Princess Charlotte.
The press shared no specifics about what led to the event and said that Kate may have felt emotional since she had just given birth to Prince Louis. Kate showed no signs of anxiety or stress on the wedding day.
Kate and The Sussexes' Leaving
By November 2018, rumors about an alleged feud between Kate and Meghan had spread like wildfire. It began in August 2018 when news about a royal split in Kensington Palace took the country by storm. Newspaper reports said Prince William and Prince Harry were splitting their professional responsibilities at Kensington Palace.
Prince Harry would have a separate office. Shortly after, he and Meghan moved out of Kensington Palace to Frogmore Cottage. The press suggested Meghan might be the catalyst for the split.
When Kate Wore Diana's Earrings
In 2019, the Duchess of Cambridge caused a stir with her choice of earrings at baby Archie’s christening portrait. Kate wore the same earrings Dina wore to Prince Harry’s Christening in 1994 – a pair of beautiful Collingwood Pearl Earrings. Fans of the royal family thought it was in bad taste.
The earrings would have made sense if it were her children’s christening. If anyone should be wearing heirlooms from Diana, it was Meghan. Royal observers accused Kate of attempting to upstage Meghan.
She Took Off Her Engagement Ring
In 2020, royal fans spotted Kate without her trademark sapphire engagement ring in one of her photos at home. She was photographed wearing only her wedding band. Before the internet could lose its mind, news reports clarified that she was adhering to rigorous handwashing protocols during the previous two years.
Concern turned into relief when people realized the ring was off for no particular reason, and everything was sailing smoothly.
Her Legal Battle with Tatler
The press writes wild stories about the royal family all the time. Traditionally, the palace will rarely issue comments – that is, until Tatler published a cover story about Kate in May 2020. The article claimed to have spoken to a bunch of her friends, who shared how the Duchess was upset about her workload after Prince Harry and Meghan’s exited the royal family.
In an uncharacteristic move, Kensington Palace released a strongly-worded statement, criticizing the article for “false misrepresentations” and “inaccuracies.” Prince William and Kate sent legal notices to the Tatler, demanding the story be taken down.
They Face Backlash
In 2022, Kate and Prince William embarked on an overseas royal tour after remaining in the UK for the previous two years. The couple meant to tour the Caribbean to mark Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee, but the trip did not turn out as planned.
Unlike previous royal tours, they faced severe backlash and criticism. From Belize to Barbados, local communities organized protests - criticizing the monarchy’s colonial past and associations with the slave trade.
Future Queen
In September 2022, Kate's title changed. She was no longer just the Duchess of Cambridge and she became Princess of Wales, future Queen of England. Diana, Princess of the People, was the last woman to carry that title.
Kate inherited the title after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and is now next in line to be queen. Her young spirit and her understanding of the new generation that has grown in the kingdom, assure Kate will fulfill her duty with grace and dignity, and help adapt to the changes the royal family is going through.
As a member of the royal family, Kate Middleton’s fashion is classy, conservative, and eye-catching. But it’s also practical. Instead of buying a new outfit each and every time she goes out, Kate is an expert at recycling her favorite looks.
If she wanted to, Kate could likely fill her closet with never-before-seen ensembles. Instead, she often re-wears her favorite pieces, usually changing something about her hair or accessories to ensure the look isn’t the same. Which outfits are her obvious favorites? Keep reading to see the outfits Kate Middleton wears the most.
Day Birger et Mikkelson Coat - May 2006
Kate first premiered this lovely gold number at the wedding of Laura Parker Bowles and Harry Lopes. Bowles is the daughter of Prince William’s stepmother, Camilla Parker Bowles, so Kate surely wanted to look her best.
The Day Birger et Mikkelson coat features delicate embroidery across the entire jacket. On this occasion, Kate paired the coat with a small feather hat and a gold clutch.
Day Birger et Mikkelson Coat - May 2011
Five years later, the stunning Day Birger et Mikkelson jacket made another appearance. In May 2011, Kate wore the coat to another wedding, this time the nuptials of Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall.
Rather than the feather hat of 2006, however, Kate chose a stunning white hat designed by milliner Gina Foster. The swooping design contributed to the hat’s moniker of the “potato chip hat.” It featured a broad brim sitting sideways on Kate’s head with a gold flower peeking out of the left side.
Day Birger et Mikkelson Coat - August 2012
Just a few months later, Kate pulled out the Day Birger et Mikkelson coat from her closet and dusted it off for another event. This time, however, the Princess wasn’t attending a wedding. Instead, she donned the coat for the opening ceremony of the 2012 Paralympics.
On this occasion, Kate chose to wear her hair down without the addition of any hats. Instead, she paired the jacket with a bright gold clutch from Wilbur and Gussie and a nude pair of L.K. Bennet pumps.
Pink Mulberry Coat - December 2014
In December 2014, Kate first premiered her bright pink Mulberry coat. The jacket featured a double row of black buttons down the front that stood out against the vibrant color.
Kate wore the jacket while visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in New York City. At the time, she was pregnant with Princess Charlotte. The coat’s silhouette quickly hid her growing baby bump. On this occasion, she paired the jacket with black gloves, a black clutch, and a ponytail.
Pink Mulberry Coat - March 2015
A short while later, Kate wore the pink Mulberry jacket again, this time to the Stephen Lawrence Centre. She ditched the black gloves and wore her hair down in flowing waves around her face. However, she again paired the look with a black clutch.
During this outing, Kate’s baby bump was much more pronounced. You could easily see her belly protruding and pressing against the buttons of the jacket. Considering Charlotte’s birth was just two months away, her expanded figure wasn’t a surprise.
Pink Mulberry Coat - January 2018
The pink Mulberry coat is an outfit of choice for Kate while she’s pregnant. Three years after her visit to the Stephen Lawrence Centre, Kate wore the jacket again. This time, she was pregnant with Prince Louis.
Kate wore the vibrant coat while visiting the Coventry Cathedral in early 2018. She donned black gloves again and carried her black clutch once more, but left her hair down and flowing around her face. Her baby bump wasn’t even visible among the folds of the jacket.
M Missoni Tweed Coat - March 2012
In March 2012, Kate donned a blue M Missoni tweed coat for the first time. The long jacket was a perfect choice for the opening of a charity shop in Norfolk, England.
On this occasion, Kate chose to accessorize the blue coat with yellow flowers pinned to her chest. The flowers stood out beautifully against the blue of the coat. She didn’t have any accessories that day besides her ring and wore her hair down in a simple style.
M Missoni Tweed Coat - March 2014
In March 2014, Kate attended the wedding of Lucy Meade and Charlie Budgett alongside Prince William. For the occasion, she again donned the M Missoni tweed coat. This time, however, Kate’s outfit looked utterly different.
Rather than the simple style of March 2012, Kate chose to make the outfit wedding-worthy. She wore her hair up in half-up, half-down style, and placed a lovely black hat with a bow on her head. She also carried a black clutch and no longer sported the yellow flowers of the 2012 look.
Light Blue Roksanda Ilincic Dress - July 2011
Early in her marriage to Prince William, Kate wore this stunning Roksanda Ilincic dress on a trip to Los Angeles. The light blue color is simple and understated, but the ruffles on the top and cinched waistline give the dress a stylish look.
On this occasion, Kate pulled her hair back from her face and carried a nude clutch. She also paired a silver watch with her wedding ring. The outfit is classy enough for a princess, but casual enough for a day of roaming around Los Angeles.
Light Blue Roksanda Ilincic Dress - July 2012
Just a year later, Kate wore the Roksanda Ilincic dress again. This time, she attended the UK’s Creative Industries Reception in the light blue number.
Rather than the casual Los Angeles look, Kate dressed up the outfit slightly on this occasion. She paired the dress with a silver beaded clutch and wore her hair in an elegant low bun style. She finished off the look with a pair of silver earrings, creating a classy outfit perfect for any formal event.
Magenta Oscar de la Renta Skirt Suit - February 2017
Kate sported this stunning magenta number for the first time at the Guild of Health Writers Conference in February 2017. The skirt Suit features a fitted top with a row of black buttons paired with a flared skirt.
Kate paired the vibrant outfit with a black clutch and watch. She also wore her hair down, contributing to the overall casual look of the outfit.
Magenta Oscar de la Renta Skirt Suit - January 2019
Kate wore the Oscar de la Renta skirt suit again for a visit to the Royal Opera House in January 2019. Kate used the trip to learn about the opera house’s use of textiles and chatted with the dancers about their various costume designs.
Again, Kate wore her hair down in pure waves for the appearance. She also paired the skirt suit with black tights and a pair of black and gold pumps. Lastly, she carried a small black bag at her side. The overall effect was a casual but classy outfit.
Magenta Oscar de la Renta Skirt Suit - November 2019
A few months after her visit to the Opera House, Kate donned the skirt yet again, this time for the opening of The Nook Children Hospice in Framingham Earl, Norfolk.
Kate wore her hair down and again paired the outfit with black tights. This time, however, she carried a black clutch instead of a black bag.
Green Emilia Wickstead Dress - March 2012
What better dress for the St. Patrick’s Day celebration? On the holiday, Kate wore this stunning green Emilia Wickstead dress in Aldershot, England at a St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Mons Barracks. During the event, the Princess presented shamrocks Irish Guards present at the parade.
To round out the St. Patty’s Day theme, Kate pinned a golden shamrock pin to her lapel. She also wore a brown Lock & Co. hat that perfectly match her brown Emmy shoes. She completed the look with a small bunch of fresh greenery pinned to her shoulder.
Green Emilia Wickstead Dress - March 2013
Just a year later, Kate decided to embrace the same St. Patrick’s Day outfit at the very same event. She again wore the green Emilia Wickstead dress to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Mons Barracks. However, Kate changed up the look slightly in the second year.
She wore a green turtleneck under the dress, transforming the green number into more of a coat. She also ditched the belt she wore in 2012, likely because she was pregnant with Prince George and didn’t need anything pressing on her midsection.
Red Ami Coat - November 2011
While visiting the UNICEF center in Copenhagen, Denmark, Kate donned a gorgeous red Ami coat. Rather than wearing the belt that goes with the long jacket, Kate decided to finish off the ensemble with a chunky Bessie belt from Reis.
Kate wore her hair down for this event, carried a black clutch, and finished off the outfit with a pair of Stuart Weitzman boots.
Red Ami Coat - November 2012
A full year later, Kate pulled the red Ami coat out of her closet once again. This time, she stuck with the matching belt, a much more subtle addition than the bright Bessie belt. She still wore her hair down but carried a gorgeous red clutch rather than the black accessory of 2011.
Kate wore the coat while visiting the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. Considering Christmas was just around the corner, the bright red jacket was a seasonally appropriate choice.
Red Ami Coat - February 2016
Kate wore the coat again in February 2016 at an event honoring the end of RAF Search and Rescue (SAR) force operations in Anglesey, Wales. This time, she created an entirely different look with the outfit.
Kate against wore the coat with the standard belt but dressed up the look with a hat from Lock & Co. She also wore her hair up and donned silver earrings, creating a slightly more formal look. She finished off the look with a pair of black pumps that matched her hat.
Polka-Dot Topshop Dress - April 2013
Not all of Kate’s clothes are from the top designers in the world. In April 2013, she stepped out in this polka-dot dress from Topshop. She wore the stylish number for the official opening of Warner Bros. Studios. Thankfully, the outfit gave Kate enough room to move, leaving her able to duel with wands in honor of Harry Potter.
On this occasion, Kate paired the polka-dot dress with a black blazer and black clutch. She wore her hair down, quickly succumbing to the casual environment of the day.
Polka-Dot Topshop Dress - May 2013
Kate pulled out the Topshop dress again just a month after she visited Warner Bros. Studios for the wedding of Rosie Ruck Keene and William van Cutsem. The wedding ceremony took place at the Church of St. Mary the Virgin near Oxford, England.
While Kate still wore the black blazer and carried a black clutch, she dressed up the outfit with an extravagant hat. The black and white number sported feathers in the back, lending a more formal look to the casual dress.
Gray Michael Kors Dress - April 2014
While visiting Australia and New Zealand, Kate and William celebrated ANZAC Day, an official holiday to commemorate all Australians and New Zealanders who fought and died in wars. For the occasion, Kate wore a simple Michale Kors dress in gray with black buttons down the front.
To honor the solemn occasion, Kate wore a black hat, carried a black clutch, and finished the ensemble with black shoes. A small red flower pinned to her chest added just a tiny dash of color.
Gray Michael Kors Dress - May 2016
The gray Michael Kors dress made another appearance, this time at the opening of The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace. Rather than wearing a hat on this occasion, Kate left her hair down in loose curls and pinned back only the sides. She also wore a gray shirt underneath the dress, creating a more casual look.
Kate finished off her ensemble with a simple necklace, creating a perfect casual-chic look for a day spent outdoors.
Ivory Roland Mouret Dress - May 2012
While attending a private dinner hosted by The Thirty Club at Claridge's, Kate donned an ivory Roland Mouret dress. The cream-colored gown fell to the floor but had a high-slit that showed off Kate’s shoes.
While the slit was still conservative, it gave a perfect peek at the silver, open-toed Jimmy Choos Kate wore with the gown. She also accessorized with a beaded clutch that added a little sparkle to her outfit.
Ivory Roland Mouret Dress - December 2013
Kate wore the simple ivory gown again while attending the royal premiere of Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. She walked the central London red carpet in the elegant dress, this time with her hair pulled back and a chunky necklace around her neck.
Rather than silver Jimmy Choos, Kate opted for simple black pumps for the movie premiere. She also carried a black clutch, creating an entirely different ensemble than her May 2012 look.
Blue-Green Jenny Packham Dress - February 2014
Kate went for a bit of elegant glamor while visiting the National Portrait Gallery in London in February 2014. Kate attended the gallery for The Portrait Gala 2014: Collecting to Inspire. For the occasion, she donned a long blue-green Jenny Packham dress.
The floor-length dress featured light fabric and a black band at the waist. Kate left her hair down but paired a stunning diamond necklace with the gown for a more formal look.
Blue-Green Jenny Packham Dress - December 2014
Just a few months later, Kate donned the blue-green Jenny Packham dress yet again, this time for the St. Andrews 600th Anniversary Dinner at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
For this formal occasion, Kate paired the gown with black pumps and a stylish updo. She finished off the outfit with a sparkling pair of Emerald earrings and a matching bracelet, adding a bit of glitz and glamor to the look.
Teal Jenny Packham Gown - May 2012
The blue-green dress wasn’t the only item from Jenny Packham that Kate kept on-hand in her closet. While attending “Our Greatest Team Rises,” the BOA Olympic Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, Kate donned another dress from the designer.
The teal Jenny Packham dress was another floor-length number with lace detailing around the top. To complement the bright color, Kate paired the gown with silver dangling earrings and silver platform heels.
Teal Jenny Packham Gown - November 2018
The teal dress didn’t make another appearance until November 2018, when Kate wore it to the Tusk Conversation Awards in London.
Kate went for a more casual look on this occasion by wearing her hair down, but she kept with her colorful theme by carrying a turquoise clutch. It matched the details of the dress exactly, turning Kate into a teal-covered goddess.
Wine Paule Ka Skirt Suit - October 2012
While meeting with law students at London’s Middle Temple, Kate wore a wine-colored skirt suit by French designer Paule Ka. The skirt flares out slightly from Kate’s small frame and features horizontal lines that add some interest to the outfit.
On this occasion, Kate wore the skirt suit with black tights and simple black shoes. She wore a shirt underneath the jacket and kept her hair down, creating a professional, but laidback look.
Wine Paule Ka Skirt Suit - February 2017
Kate pulled out the Paule Ka skirt suit again in February 2017 while acting as a royal patron of Action for Children in Wales. Instead of a simple shirt hidden under the jacket, Kate changed up the look by wearing a black turtleneck underneath the blazer.
She again wore black tights, but this time paired them with comfortable boots that allowed her to be on her feet all day. Her hair remained down but was pulled back from her face, allowing her to work without distraction.
Wine Paule Ka Skirt Suit - November 2018
The Paule Ka skirt suit was an outfit of choice for Kate in professional settings. While visiting the University College London for her work for early intervention, Kate wore almost an identical look to her February 2017 ensemble.
The black turtleneck and tights remained on this occasion. However, Kate opted for black pumps instead of black boots. She also wore her hair up, tied back with a velvet bow to show off her gold earrings.
Pink Alexander McQueen Coat - June 2013
Just a month before Prince George was born, Kate sported another classy maternity outfit in the form of a light pink Alexander McQueen coat. The true standout element of this jacket was the pearl buttons lining the front.
Kate paired the jacket with a light pink hat and ivory clutch. Even eight months pregnant, Kate still looked like the belle of the ball at the annual Trooping the Colour Ceremony, which she watched from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
Pink Alexander McQueen Coat - March 2015
Two years later, while she was pregnant with Princess Charlotte, Kate pulled out the pink Alexander McQueen coat once again. This time, she wore the coat to the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey.
She wore another light pink hat, though the 2015 version was a stunning Jane Taylor design. She also sported a rose-colored Prada clutch and drop earrings from Kiki McDonough.
Emerald Catherine Walker Coat - March 2017
For St. Patrick’s Day 2017, Kate donned another deep green, gorgeous outfit. This time, her look was an emerald Catherine Walker coat. The coat had two rows of buttons and changed color from white to lime green halfway through the top of the coat.
Kate paired the outfit with an emerald-colored hat from Sylvia Fletcher for Lock & Co. and Emmy London green suede pumps. The outfit was the perfect choice for the shamrock ceremony during the annual parade in Hounslow.
Emerald Catherine Walker Coat - March 2017
The emerald Catherine Walker coat was far too beautiful to wear just once. Shortly after the St. Patty’s Day celebration, Kate wore the coat during a trip to Paris.
However, Kate had an ulterior motive by wearing the coat twice in such a short time. She wore the coat specifically to honor Walker, who was born in France. Rather than a stylish updo and hat, Kate kept the coat simple the second time around by merely wearing her hair down.
Black Jane Taylor Headpiece - November 2018
While Kate is known for repurposing some of her favorite outfits, some of her looks are simply noteworthy because they’re so beautiful. In November 2018, Kate attended the Remembrance Sunday service wearing a velvet headpiece from Jane Taylor.
The headpiece was the perfect finishing touch to her emerald green ensemble. To round out the look, Kate added Cassandra Goad pearl studs to the outfit and donned her Jimmy Choo Romy 100 velvet pumps.
Black Temperley London Gown - January 2012
In 2012, Kate attended the UK premiere of War Horse in London. Prince Willaim shielded his wife from the rain, allowing her outfit to remain pristine.
On the evening of the premiere, Kate wore a stunning black lace Temperly London gown. While the dress was gorgeous, the real star of the evening was the diamond bracelet around Kate’s wrist. The large piece of jewelry added more than a little shine to Kate’s outfit, standing out beautifully next to the black clutch held in her hand.
Black Temperley London Gown - November 2012
Just a few months after attending the movie premiere, Kate wore the Temperley London gown again. This time, the Princess attended the University of St. Andrew’s 600th Anniversary at Middle Temple Hall in London.
Rather than wearing the gorgeous diamond bracelet, Kate opted for a more understated look at this event. She left her neck and wrists bare but carried a bright red clutch in her hands.
Black Temperley London Gown - December 2013
Although Kate wore the Temperly London dress twice, she wasn’t done with it yet. In December 2013, she attended another movie premiere, this time for David Attenborough’s Natural History Museum Alive 3D.
For this premiere, Kate wore the gown and the diamond bracelet again. She kept her hair simple, leaving it down and straight without any accessories.
Polka-Dot Alessandra Rich Midi Dress - November 2018
In November 2018, the royal family released an official family portrait in honor of Prince Charles’s (now King Charles IIi) 70th birthday. In the picture, Kate wore a polka-dot Alessandra Rich midi dress. The dark blue dress featured white polka-dots, white cuffs, and white buttons down the front.
In the photo, Kate held her newest baby with a happy smile on her face. She didn’t bother with any jewelry and wore her hair down in pure waves.
Polka-Dot Alessandra Rich Midi Dress - May 2019
A few months after the official family portrait was released, Kate attended an event at Bletchley Park to mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day. During this event, Kate wore a long polka-dot dress once again.
For this ensemble, Kate maintained her loose waves around her face. She paired the dress with light blue pumps and simple earrings to create a perfectly chic look.
Black Floral Alexander McQueen Gown - February 2017
When she arrived at the 2017 BAFTAs, Kate stepped out in a floor-length Alexander McQueen gown. The dress had a gorgeous floral pattern broken up by horizontal black ribbons stitched into the fabric.
On this occasion, Kate wore the dress off her shoulders. To align with the formal look of the evening, the Princess wore her hair up in a bun and put a diamond bracelet around her wrist. She carried a black clutch in her hand and sported shimmering dangly earrings to finish off the outfit.
Black Floral Alexander McQueen Gown - March 2019
In March 2019, Kate stepped out in the Alexandre McQueen gown once again. This time, she attended the National Portrait Gallery Gala in London.
Rather than the ultra-formal look of the 2017 BAFTAs, Kate opted for a more casual look at the National Portrait Gallery. She still carried a black clutch, but she left her hair down and loosed around her face. While she didn’t wear the diamond bracelet, she did don a pair of sparkling earrings.
Blue Eponine London Dress - January 2017
In January 2017, Kate showed up to the Child Bereavement UK Centre in a bright blue dress from Eponine London. The simple dress was belted at the waist with a row of buttons up the conservative top.
While visiting the Bereavement Centre, Kate paired the dress with blue pumps and a black clutch. She wore her hair down but pinned back the sides to keep it away from her face. To let everyone know she meant business, the princess also donned a silver watch.
Blue Eponine London Dress - November 2018
Kate wore much the same outfit again in 2018 when she visited Quarry View in Barnsley. She still sported the gorgeous blue dress and watched, making her instantly recognizable when she stepped outside.
The only slight difference in this ensemble was Kate’s hair. Rather than pinning it back, Kate allowed it to fall in a straight style around her face.
White-and-Gold Alexander McQueen Gown - September 2012
Kate decided to go all-out while attending a state dinner in Malaysia. She stuck to a beautiful, formal look by wearing and white-and-gold Alexander McQueen gown. The gown featured sheer sleeves and gold embroidering across the entire dress.
Kate pulled her hair back into a curly half-up, half-down style. She also accessorized with a gold clutch, gold bracelet, and gold earrings. To finish off the look, she donned a pair of open-toed shoes.
White-and-Gold Alexander McQueen Gown - February 2020
Considering the formal look of the gown, it comes as no surprise that Kate chose to wear it again. This time, she donned the white-and-gold number for the 73rd annual BAFTAs.
To celebrate the British Academy Film Awards, Kate pulled her hair back into a sweeping updo. She also wore a necklace that seemed to match the pattern of her dress. She finished off the outfit with dangly earrings and sparkly gold hoops.
Dolce & Gabbana Skirt Suit - February 2019
The Dolce & Gabbana skirt suit is a favorite of the Princess. She has worn it many times throughout the years. Just last year, Kate donned the skirt suit for a trip to a mental health hospital.
On this occasion, Kate paired the skirt with black tights and low black heels. She left her hair down around her face and carried a black clutch in her hand.
Dolce & Gabbana Skirt Suit - January 2020
Just a year after her 2019 appearance in the skirt suit, Kate donned the outfit once again. This time she visited the Evelina Children's Hospital in London sporting the chic look. While she again wore tights and small black heels with the skirt suit, Kate decided to change her hair.
Rather than wearing it down, she pulled it back in a half-up, half-down style that showed off her sparkling earrings. She also left the clutch at home to keep her hands free while she wandered the hospital.
Catherine Walker Houndstooth Coat - January 2018
In William and Kate's Scandinavian tour in 2018, Kate donned this gorgeous red and white houndstooth coat by Catherine Walker. The royals were visiting the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm to learn about how Sweden approaches mental health issues, a field that Kate and William have been deeply involved in for years.
If you noticed anything different about Kate's appearance, it's because she was actually pregnant with Prince Louis at the time! The then-duchess had completed the outfit with matching burgundy heels and a burgundy Chanel purse. There was also the addition of black woolen gloves, but that seemed more like a practical choice rather than a fashionable one.
Catherine Walker Houndstooth Coat - February 2023
Kate revived the red and white houndstooth coat in 2023 for an event closer to home. The prince and princess attended the Guinness Six Nations match at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. This time around, Kate donned the coat dress over a warm black sweater and paired it with some black tights.
The contrast of the colorful coat with the black details underneath completely transformed the outfit from when Kate first wore it back in 2018. Unfortunately for the royals, England didn't win the match that day. Luckily, they barely won any others since so it's safe to say the prince and princess didn't psych them out that day.
Roland Mouret Suit - December 2022
In December of 2022, William and Kate found themselves in Boston, Massachusetts. The royals spent three days in Boston to learn all about the strides the city has made in terms of combating climate change, as well as learning just how much the coastal city had suffered from environmental problems. During their stay, Kate and William attended the Second Annual Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony, which honors those whose work helps to heal the planet.
On one day, Kate opted for this professional-looking maroon suit from Roland Mouret and paired it with a pink blouse. This fashion choice wasn't purely aesthetic; Roland Mouret is well-known for its efforts in producing sustainable pieces using eco-friendly materials and practices, making it the perfect choice for the occasion.
Roland Mouret Suit - January 2023
Kate joined Simon Johnson, chair of the Rugby Football League, in 2023 at the reception for the England Wheelchair Rugby League Team. The occasion marked the fact that England had been crowned the winners of the Rugby League Wheelchair World Cup after defeating France in November of 2022. The reception aimed not only to celebrate the players' achievements, but also to raise awareness for the sport.
Kate, having just worn her maroon suit a month earlier, decided to don it again. This time, she paired it with a relaxed cream sweater and a dainty gold necklace. Kate showed the versatility of what would be considered a bold outfit choice by switching out the undershirts for each occasion.
Custom High-Neck Dress - March 2019
When you're a royal, you have access to clothes from the best designers in the world, whenever you want them. But what happens when you don't see anything you like on the rack or the runway? You simply go to your private dressmaker. For then-Prince Charles' Investiture's 50th Anniversary Reception, Kate opted for a custom mint dress that was fit for royalty.
The dress' color was muted, which only helped to emphasize the details of the neck, buttons, and cuffs. While nobody would doubt that Kate's dressmaker is exceptional, this look really screams "Kate Middleton," and shows how well the dressmaker knows the princess.
Custom High-Neck Dress - May 2022
It's fair to say that this dress can only be worn for royal events. So when Kate needed an outfit for the late Queen Elizabeth's garden tea party, she revived her custom mint high-neck dress from a few years prior. This time around, Kate completed the outfit by adding a matching hat and heels.
The hat, we can safely assume, was also custom-made judging by the fact it was an exact match to the dress. The outfit was the perfect option for a Spring garden tea party with its muted coloring that wasn't too dark or dazzling for the event.
Alexander McQueen Suit - March 2022
This white suit from Alexander McQueen quickly became one of Princess Kate's favorite outfits of 2022, if it didn't take the top spot altogether. Kate wore it three times that year and each time she managed to make it seem like she wasn't simply reusing an outfit without any thought. In March of 2022, Kate and William were on a tour of Belize, Jamaica, and the Bahamas.
In Kingston, Jamaica, Kate donned this number for her and the prince's meeting with the Jamaican Prime Minister. For the suit's first appearance, Kate paired it with a dazzling orange blouse, and a matching, even more dazzling, orange purse.
Alexander McQueen Suit - June 2022
Kate's favored white Alexander McQueen suit made its second appearance just two months after she first wore it in Jamaica. In June of that year, Kate and Prince William attended the unveiling of the National Windrush Monument at Waterloo Station in London. They were accompanied by Baroness Floella Benjamin, who looked wonderful herself.
This time, Kate went for an all-white ensemble with a white camisole top underneath, as well as a white purse and white heels. The only things that stood out were her statement earrings. This outfit is one of many that prove that Kate does not need bright, eye-catching outfits to stand out.
Alexander McQueen Suit - August 2022
For the third and final installment of the white Alexander McQueen suit, Kate wore it while attending the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. Kate was joined by her daughter, Charlotte, as she watched the Swimming event at Sandwell Aquatics Centre.
This version of the all-white outfit is similar to the previous ensemble, but Kate accessorized with a necklace and a belt to make this look a little more relaxed. The then-Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have long attended the games as part of their royal duties, and Kate saw it as the perfect place for her favorite outfit of the year.
Alexander McQueen Dress - July 2015
The christening of your child is a huge event. Now imagine compounding that with the fact that the child in question is the princess of the United Kingdom. That's no small feat for a mother just nine weeks postpartum. To mark the occasion, Kate wore a cream Alexander McQueen dress that was simple and elegant.
It was the perfect timeless number, so much so that she has continued to wear it for years after. For the christening, Kate chose an ornate hat to match the dress, and cream heels. She walked Charlotte into the proceedings and managed to look more elegant than any of us could in our lives.
Alexander McQueen Dress - May 2018
Arguably one of the biggest global events of 2018 was the royal wedding between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Many eyes were on the royal family after waves of controversy had emerged regarding their acceptance of Meghan into the family. The then-Duchess of Cambridge opted for her trusty cream Alexander McQueen dress for the wedding.
Previously, Kate had worn it for her daughter's christening, so clearly, this dress was reserved for high-status use only. This time, Kate paired it with a slanted hat that had a large flower on it, complementing her small bouquet. She was escorted by Princess Charlotte who looked adorable in her flower-girl ensemble.
Alexander McQueen Dress - April 2022
To commemorate ANZAC Day in 2022, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended a Service Of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. Catherine chose her cream Alexander McQueen dress and paired it with a large cream headband. She accessorized with a black purse and opted for black heels to complement it.
Historically, the then-Duchess had only worn this dress to family events, including the christening of her daughter. Now, she decided that it was an appropriate choice for a somber and serious event, not only for happy occasions. As she entered the church, though, she was all smiles and brought her light to the difficult event.
Jenny Packham Gown - October 2019
Kate and William spent a few days in Pakistan on a diplomatic tour in 2019. As part of their stay, the royal couple attended a reception held by the British High Commissioner to Pakistan. It was the first royal visit to the country in 15 years, and the Duke and Duchess made every effort to make the most out of their time there. This included meeting local children, touring around the country, and meeting the Pakistani President.
They arrived at the reception in style, via a decorated rickshaw. While Prince William donned a more traditional outfit, Kate looked gorgeous in a glittery green gown by Jenny Packham. Packham also created a traditional dupatta scarf to go with the outfit.
Jenny Packham Gown - November 2021
The Royal Variety Performance is a time-honored tradition dating back to 1912. It's a tradition that a number of royals, including the monarch, show up for the fundraising event. Princess Kate first attended with Prince William in 2014, and she's returned to the royal box many times since.
After missing 2020's event, Kate attended the 2021 performance looking as dazzling as you would expect. She re-wore the sparkly green Jenny Packham gown that she wore in India a few years before, though this time she ditched the scarf for a more traditional British look. Needless to say, she looked like a star on the red carpet.
Alexander McQueen Dress Coat - November 2012
Even when Kate was in her infancy as a Duchess, she never made a wrong fashion move. She has always picked timeless outfits, made evident by the fact that this is the first of three times she publicly wore this Alexander McQueen dress coat, with the most recent being almost a decade later.
The green and black tartan outfit is the ideal winter outfit to look stylish and still put-together, which is kind of Kate Middleton in a nutshell. For its first appearance, Kate wore it with sheer black tights, thigh-high black heel boots, and cute earrings. She toured a school that was hosting festivities for St. Andrew's Day and met with the school kids.
Alexander McQueen Dress Coat - December 2013
A year after the green and black tartan dress made its debut, the Duchess of Cambridge wore it again to the Christmas Day church service at St Mary Magdalene Church, just ahead of the holiday. Clearly, this is a winter look, so Kate once again opted for black tights and boots. This time, however, she dressed it up a bit by adding a hat.
One of the fun royal hats that regular people never wear, and you're not really sure the royals enjoy wearing it, either. The Alexander McQueen number worked especially well on this occasion thanks to its green coloring. Prince William wore a red tie, so together they had all the required Christmas colors without either one looking too funny.
Alexander McQueen Dress Coat - January 2019
It had been a while, but the green and black tartan dress coat couldn't collect dust in the closet any longer. The Duchess broke it out for another wintery day, this time in Scotland. Kate had attended the opening of the V&A Dundee design museum. The dress was a fitting choice given that Alexander McQueen's father is Scottish.
So, say what you want about Kate Middleton, but her fashion choices are always layered and well-thought-out. This time, Kate paired the dress with a warm green scarf and a green purse. We might be overthinking this part, but are those the same earrings that she's worn the past two times she's worn this dress? Either way, it works.
Matthew Williamson Dress - April 2012
For the UK premiere of "African Cats" in aid of Tusk, the new Duchess of Cambridge wore an African-inspired gray dress with turquoise embellishments by Matthew Williamson. This event was just ahead of their first wedding anniversary, and it's fun to see how young the two looked here.
Before any baby princes and princesses arrived, and while Prince William still had all of his hair, the pair were attending events left, right, and center. This dress was the perfect blend of muted and modest, with a fun built-in accessory that prevented Kate from looking dull. The Spring number stayed a favorite of Kate's and resurfaced some years later.
Matthew Williamson Dress - November 2015
For the second rendition of Matthew Williamson's grey dress, Kate wore it to the Place2Be Headteacher Conference at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in London. Years wiser herself, Kate still loved this dress and felt it was the perfect fit for a teachers' conference. Like last time, Kate paired the outfit with a small black purse and also wore some dainty gold leaf earrings.
The peplum aspect of the dress was very 2012, but Kate made it work even when it wasn't so in style anymore. Kate was a patron of the charity and spoke about her experience and dedication to the betterment of children's mental health.
Alexander McQueen Dress - June 2012
Often, Kate Middleton is known for wearing modestly-colored outfits that don't make her stand out too much. That was not the case at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. This was a special occasion that every royal needed to show up at putting their best foot forward. To do this, Kate enlisted the trusty designer, Alexander McQueen, who is a favorite of hers.
To mark the occasion, Kate wore a bright red boat-neck, long-sleeved dress, and paired it with a matching hat. Her hair was up, which isn't so usual for the Princess. She also held a red clutch purse, as well as a second, yellow tartan purse (for some reason).
Alexander McQueen Dress - December 2015
Previously, this bold number was worn at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. Three years later, Kate donned it again for a slightly less important (though equally fitting) occasion. Kate attended the Anna Freud Centre Family School Christmas Party in London, and a bright red dress definitely screamed "Christmas."
While anyone can get away with wearing loud clothing in the name of the holiday, Kate usually doesn't wear such bright colors. Still, you can't fault her — she kept everything else low-key and knew how to carry herself so that the dress didn't wear her. It's an impressive talent that she seems to naturally possess.
Project D Dress - September 2012
When Kate and William set off for their Jubilee Tour of the Far East in the year 2012, Kate needed a closet full of outfits to accompany her. One such outfit was a yellow Project D dress with eyelet cut-outs. The dress was the perfect summer frock, complete with a folded collar.
When Kate wore it at the departure ceremony at Honiara Airport in the Solomon Isles, she had her hair done in a royal updo and wore easy camel-colored wedged sandals. She also held a traditional ornate fan, which no doubt came in handy with the area's famous humidity.
Project D Dress - August 2015
For a tour of Australia and New Zealand during the summer, you need some airy dresses to keep you cool. Luckily, Kate had this yellow Project D number on standby from her trip to the Far East a few years before. The summery frock was the perfect number for touring and sightseeing. The royal couple met some special residents, the famous Australian quokkas.
They weren't as impressed with meeting the British royals as you or we would be, but that's understandable. We bet they were hoping for Edward. Kate had her hair flowing, and even Prince William looked cool and casual in his checkered shirt.
Diane von Furstenberg Gown - November 2014
The Royal Variety Performance is a night of glitz and glam, and Kate and her stylists knew this. They opted for this Diane von Furstenberg black lace gown that is fit for a (future) queen. The gown was elegant, dazzling, and, like always, showed the world how fitting it is that Kate Middleton is part of the royal family.
Certainly in this gown, there would not have been an eye that she did not catch. Fortunately, that's what the night is for. The fundraising night was a hit, as always, and the royal family got to enjoy the best entertainment the country has to offer.
Diane von Furstenberg Gown - November 2017
Almost exactly three years after its debut, the Diane von Furstenberg black lace gown reappeared for another black-tie event. This time, it was the 2017 Gala Dinner for The Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families. The event was held at Kensington Palace.
It was attended by many guests who have dedicated their lives and work to the betterment of the lives of children and families in need. The cause is close to the heart of the Duchess of Cambridge, and she has spent many years learning as well as educating others on the topic. Kate naturally stole the show but in her modest way, didn't make a scene of herself.
Alexander McQueen Dress Coat - October 2013
When you give birth to the future king of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, media fanfare tends to ensue. Papparazi and supporters flocked to the hospital where Kate and William showed off Prince George for the first time. So, it's understandable that for his christening, they appreciated a smaller affair.
To mark the occasion, Kate wore a soft yellow Alexander McQueen dress coat with ruffles on the front. The Duchess also wore a small statement hat with netting and a large flower accessory. Overall, she looked every bit as royal as you could imagine a new mother could hope to.
Alexander McQueen Dress Coat - May 2016
One of the perks of being in the royal family is that you get to attend fancy garden tea parties at Buckingham Palace. For this kind of event, you don't need to go all out, but you need to show you've made an effort. To achieve this balance, Kate broke out her soft yellow Alexander McQueen dress coat that she wore to her eldest son's christening. She even wore the same hat!
Kate shone as she greeted guests and mingled in the garden. Her dress was well-suited to the occasion and the weather, and we're sure that guests were more enchanted to meet Kate herself rather than focus on what she was wearing.
Hobbs Dress - July 2012
This gray and white patterned Hobbs dress is an easy frock to throw on and look put together, which is exactly what the Duchess of Cambridge needs for her many appearances. Prince William and Kate visited Bacon's College in London, and Kate donned this casual, short-sleeve number.
She accessorized with a white belt that helped to dress it up a bit without making the whole look too flashy. Prince William coordinated with a relaxed white shirt, and the two looked like any old couple of parents (albeit a bit young) checking out the campus. Kate especially always has a way of dressing accurately for the task at hand.
Hobbs Dress - April 2014
The gray and white patterned Hobbs dress returned in 2014 - this time Down Under. As part of their Australia and New Zealand tour that year, Kate wore this relaxed dress as she and her husband visited the National Indigenous Training Academy. This was actually the couple's first trip with their son, Prince George.
This time, she added a large bead necklace and fun earrings to the mix. This helped to make the outfit more fun, which came in handy as she and William spoke to locals and mingled with the residents. Prince William went for a khaki shirt that also let people know he was on vacation mode.
L.K. Bennet Shift Dress - April 2014
This is undoubtedly one of Kate Middleton's most fun outfits. The shift dress is gorgeous with its square neckline showing off Kate's collarbone, and its large floral pattern wrapping around the torso and dotted throughout. The contrast of the blue pattern on the white dress is perfect for a summery day.
Kate wore this to the Brisbane Airforce Base as part of her and Prince William's tour of Australia and New Zealand in 2014. The Duchess was all smiles, and who can blame her? She was dazzling. She wore her hair half-back and completed the outfit with silver and blue jewelry.
L.K. Bennet Shift Dress - August 2016
When you have a dress as fun and pretty as this blue and white L.K. Bennet dress, you can't just wear it once. Kate bided her time but broke it out two years after its first appearance in Australia. This time, she was home in England, and she and Prince William were visiting Bute Mills in Luton.
She paired it with a tiny clutch purse (no really, what exactly could she fit in there?) that matched her tan, natural nails. This time, the Duchess of Cambridge skipped the jewelry and let the dress speak for itself. And it sure told us that the Princess of Wales has always known how to dress.