Idolized for her dynamic take on classic style, Kate Middleton is the epitome of elegance. Whether you skew more fashion-forward than the Duchess of Cambridge or share an adoration for timeless and sophisticated pieces, there’s no denying she has the polished thing down pat. And while it’s unlikely we’ll ever have her royal wardrobe at our disposal (though Meghan Markle does give us hope), we are capable of emulating her go-to outfit formulas with one recent number piquing our interest as a must-try.
One of Kate’s favorite silhouettes is the tried-and-true sheath dress in both bright colors and feminine prints. For an appearance at Wimbledon in London, the Duchess stepped out in a perky yellow version—a major color trend right now—with a neutral top-handle bag, pumps and classic jewelry. The fail-safe silhouette is, indeed, versatile for the office and dressed up occasions, but it can read a tad snoozy if lacking modern details. The Duchess, however, proves that the ladylike style is directional when unique accents are at play. In this case, flutter sleeves and a sleek shape do the trick. Even her classic accessories are spruced up with the help of clean lines and hardware—a refined way to wear more modern silhouettes throughout the work week.
If you’re in the mood for a modern ladylike look á la the Duchess, ahead, we’ve re-created her sophisticated ensemble from head to toe. For good measure, we’ve also included more instances were her tried-and-true signature ensemble delivered (because more is always more when it comes to style inspo). So whether you wear it to work, a cocktail party or, heck, a casually elegant sporting event, you’ll look exquisite (and definitely not boring) in this winning formula.
Frilled accents and asymmetrical details (or both!) instantly update a fitted sheath. Jewelry that’s at once timeless and on-trend push a lineup of classics into forward territory—the two-tone watch is perfect if you’re one to mix metals like the Duchess, too.
In Orla Kiely
At the Charities Forum Event at Paddington Station in London, 2017
In Catherine Walker With A Victoria Beckham Tote
At Wimbledon, 2017
In Dolce & Gabbana
In Kelowna, Canada, 2016
In Altuzarra
In Essex, 2016
