If you haven’t yet had your fix of media on the recent engagement of Prince William to Kate Middleton — well, join the club. I’ve been following the recently betrothed couple with great interest, especially after I watched — with rapt attention — their first news interview, in which a slightly nervous, clearly excited, and somewhat cheeky Kate responds to pointed questions about her upcoming nuptials, plans for children, and potential role as queen of England. There was something so endearing and candid about her somewhat flustered responses — especially as a counterpoint to Prince William’s more rehearsed, polished delivery. I’m in insta-fan, especially in light of her accessible fashion sense. I like the idea that someone so frequently thrust into the spotlight can retain a down-to-earth, level-headed sartorial sensibility — the fact that she seems to stay true to a consistent (slightly conservative, slightly preppy, slightly downtown-chic) “look” points to an admirable self-assuredness. And that’s always something that deserves the — well, royal treatment.
The above outfit may seem a bit “everyday” but I love everything about it — the durable tote, the solid black getup. And Kate is queen when it comes to toppers/outerwear. Get the look by pairing your own canvas weekender ($395, Calypso-Celle), a “country” coat (Barbour is the classic, but there’s something pitch-perfect about this Steven Alan slicker — $348, Steven Alan) , some black skinnies, and some unfussy black flat boots ($450, Simply Soles):
She’s also frequently spotted in blazers — something likes this tweed blazer seems to be up her alley ($325, J. Crew), paired with white skinnies (she rocks them in a major way):
Finish with this luxe leather tote ($285, Foley and Corinna) and coordinating, polished riding boots ($198, Vince Camuto):
Perfect for the occasional polo match. She’s also been spotted featuring her signature white skinnies in slightly less buttoned-up ensembles —
Go for it yourself with a breezy tunic (on sale for $129, Calypso) and your white skinnies:
While she might be inclined towards ivory or nude-colored flats, I like the idea of finishing with a chic python print flat (Ralph Lauren, $69, Macy’s) and this gorgeous putty satchel (l.o.v.e. the tassel accent — why am I so drawn to the tassel?! — $325, Elaine Turner):
(Love the concert of nudes/ivories/whites in this get-up. So chic.) You’ll note that I’ve been exercising some very un-magpie restraint in terms of jewelry/accessory add-ons: Ms. Middleton is rarely seen without a ladylike watch (she sports something like this seriously discounted Stuhrling timepiece — only $110, Endless)…but that’s about as far as she goes.
For more formal events, she gravitates towards v-neck wrap dresses — something like this DVF in a cheering Hermes-esque orange would probably be up her alley ($365, Diane Von Furstenberg):
Orange can be difficult to match with accessories, but a pair of nude pumps never do you wrong, and these puppies are perfection (Rupert Sanderson, $586, MyTheresa):
She looked positively regal in the royal blue dress (by Issa — now sold out) she wore for her engagement announcement — what a perfect way of showcasing her sapphire-and-diamond engagement ring (famously, the bauble was Princess Di’s engagement ring as well)!
Achieve a similar look with this belted Milly dress ($420, StyleBop) and a pair of suede heels (the Choo “Cosmics” are a new favorite of mine — just enough of a platform to be fierce, without looking vampy/trampy — $695, Net-A-Porter):
(These less expensive — $125! — and slightly more aggressive sueded TopShop platforms are another viable option.) If you’re starstruck by the drama of her sapphire dress, check out this Piccadilly Pleats Dress ($158, Madewell):
She might finish with a black tuxedo jacket and an unfussy black clutch, as she did earlier this year. Alternately, if you’re into the Halston-era vibe she’s channeling in her jersey blue dress, opt for the Halston Heritage number that caused such an uproar last season in a glimmering gem tone, like this emerald or this ruby ($354, MyTheresa):
Either would pop against this gray suede pump — the perfect season-appropriate finish ($114, Lori’s Shoes):
Layer an ivory wool coat — I adore the version she’s sporting below — atop ($230, John Lewis):
Alternately, complete the layered look above by pairing your ivory topper with a silky, long-sleeved dress ($138, Madewell), some tights ($20, Lori’s Shoes), and a pair of sueded, low-heeled boots ($298, Madewell)
Love the idea of an approachable member of the royal family — chin chin to the newly engaged!
also obsessed with the tassel soft leather bag!
I know — I need it! L.o.v.e.