There’s no doubting Kate Middleton’s affection for referential fashion.
From her ubiquitous Commonwealth Day attire that featured an ode to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, to her twinning moment with Crown Princess Mary while on her solo tour to Denmark, the stylish royal is constantly referring to vintage silhouettes and returning to tried and tested ensembles for her public appearances.
Her recent outing is no exception.
Stepping out to Westminster Abbey for the late Duke of Edinburgh’s Thanksgiving Memorial Service on Tuesday, the Duchess channelled the effortless elegance of Princess Diana with her 80s-inspired polka dot dress.
Accompanied by her husband, the Duke of Cambridge, and two of her three children, Prince George (8) and Princess Charlotte (6), the Duchess donned a black polka dot dress by British-based designer Alessandra Rich.
The gown featured a pleated skirt and regency core-inspired puff sleeves, with three brooches adorning the shoulders like a military epaulette. Kate completed her outfit with a pair of black pumps and a wide brimmed hat. The future Queen consort’s makeup was kept minimal, with a pair of pearl-drop earrings and her iconic 12 carat sapphire wedding ring the finishing touches.
The Duchess’ outfit was an ode to the similar set worn by Princess Diana, whose affinity for the print is indisputable.
The late Princess most famously wore polka dots for announcing the arrival of Prince William in 1982, however we can’t help notice the parallels between Kate’s dress and the one worn by Princess Diana to the Royal Ascot in 1988.
This latest outing isn’t the first time that the 40-year-old has taken wardrobe ques from Princess Diana, with the former sartorial referencing the late Princesses wardrobe during her recent controversial Caribbean tour.
Leaving for the UK from the Bahamas, Kate opted for another 80s-esque Alessandra Rich number for her final public appearance. The ballooned-sleeve peplum-mini took inspiration from Princess Diana’s colourful summer wardrobe, with the floral yellow print easily mistaken for one worn by Diana.
There seemed to be another twinning moment at the memorial service, with Prince William and Prince George almost identical in matching navy blue suits and patterned ties. Princess Charlotte also kept in theme with her navy trench coat and stockings.
This was the first public outing for all four royals this year—here’s hoping more matching moments at yet to come.
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