Since marrying into Great Britain’s Royal Family, Kate Middleton has evolved from a normal (okay, as normal as one of the world’s most beautiful women can be) girl to a veritable style icon. Starting with the Alexander McQueen wedding dress that will definitely go down in history as one of the most gorgeous gowns ever, Kate has worn everything from high-end designers to Topshop. Her accessible style is one that we can try to emulate, though we aren’t sure we’ll ever be quite as chic as Britain’s favorite Duchess. Her best looks ever? It’s tough to say, but we’re willing to give it a shot.
1. Glowing in Jenny Packham during first post-baby appearance
This light blue polka-dot dress by British designer Jenny Packham recalled the teal dress Princess Diana wore after the birth of Prince William. Kate looked so absolutely fabulous for having just given birth—that not even baby George could steal the show.
2. Fitted Catherine Walker in New Zealand
Currently on a three-week-long tour of Australia and New Zealand, Kate stepped off the plane in Wellington in a bold red, double-breasted coat. The color and designer were both favorites of the late Princess Di—maybe this outfit choice was meant to pay homage to her? Prince George looked pretty adorable, too.
3. Pushing style boundaries at a film premiere
Duchess Kate donned a cream Roland Mouret gown at the Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom premiere. This look was absolute perfection: the long slit on the leg, the statement necklace, and messy updo all made her look like the modern, chic princess she is.
4. Bright red at the Diamond Jubilee Pageant
Celebrating the Queen’s 50-year reign in 2012, Kate sported a fitted Alexander McQueen coat and skirt by the same designer who created her wedding dress, Sarah Burton. The scarlet ensemble paired nicely with Kate’s favorite pair of nude pumps from L.K. Bennett, which she’s been photographed in on several occasions.
5. Teal Jenny Packham at Olympic gala
This gorgeous teal Jenny Packham gown at the Olympic Gala in London before the 2012 games was stunning. The lace detailing, jeweled waistline, and flowing fabric made the Queen-to-be look like a Midsummer Night’s Dream.
6. McQ at the Sun Military Awards
Just a few months after her marriage to Prince William, Kate attended a military award ceremony in a black velvet McQueen gown, which she paired with diamonds she had received as a wedding gift.
7. At the 2011 BAFTA awards in Los Angeles
During her first official North American tour, Kate attended the BAFTA Awards in Los Angeles on the arm of her royal husband in a beautiful lilac-hued Alexander McQueen gown. Her now-famous flowing locks completed her look, leaving us swooning and wishing we could be her for a day…or a lifetime.
8. Sparkling at Ark charity gala
During the summer of 2011, Kate chose this glittering Jenny Packham dress to attend a charity gala in London. The gown fit her tiny frame perfectly, accentuating her narrow waist. She paired the dazzling dress with simple jewelry and nude heels for maximum effect.
9. Stunning in a camel-hued dress during the Obamas’ visit to Buckingham Palace
During an official visit from the Obamas to Buckingham Palace, Kate sported a £175 Reiss dress. After photos were released of the event, so many people went online to buy the camel colored dress that the website crashed. Plus, girlfriend looked super tan during the visit, which made the color the dress look even better on her.
10. Rocking Zara on the day after the Royal Wedding
On the morning after the Royal Wedding, Kate and Wills left for their honeymoon, the former wearing a peacock blue Zara dress and black blazer. This chic combo caused a stir all over the world, and the Zara dress sold out immediately. Perfection.
11. Royal Blue on the day of the Royal engagement announcement
While announcing her engagement to William, Kate wore a simple, royal blue wrap dress by Issa. Following their announcement, designers began to copy the dress, which instantly became a staple in women’s wardrobes across the world.
It’s safe to say that we are absolutely obsessed with Princess Kate. She’s beautiful, poised, intelligent, and incredibly chic. We can’t wait to see what there is to come from her closet. Anyone know how we can get her hand-me-downs?