For those of us who are obsessed, smitten, or even semi-interested in fashion, you’ll likely be familiar with the hailed hero of the style-sphere, Kate Middleton.
Almost anything the Duchess of Cambridge wears has an uncanny knack for not only selling out immediately, but also setting future trends for seasons upon seasons to come.
That’s why whenever she steps out in public, no matter what she’s wearing, you can guarantee people across the world delve full-speed into a 411 examination about every part of her ensemble.
Her latest appearance has been no different.
While she’s currently holing up in her country home in Norfolk amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Duchess has still found ways to show face to the world – and naturally, her outfits have been front and centre.
It started with the video calls.
The now infamous orange jumper (which just so happened to be from High Street label Zara, might we add), sent fans flocking to buy a version of their own.
How perfect it was that even the royal fashion icon herself was working from home, and here to inspire our own isolation wardrobes.
From the smidgen that we caught of Kate’s orange jumper, we could safely say we were smitten.
(Kensington Royal)Then came her stripy black and white top in a second video call, which, much like the orange jumper, provided ever more reason for us to justify that urge to add a little nautical spice to our upcoming winter wardrobes.
But now, the Duchess, has delivered us another at-home gem – and it’s perhaps her greatest fashion-forward gift of all.
Did you spot it? Kate wore the ultimate transeasonal dress in a surprise video appearance this week.
(BBC One)Along with many of the confronting realities posed to us by the COVID-19 health pandemic, there just so happens to be an additional hard truth us fashion fans have had to endure.
This time of year in the UK is usually filled with peak promise. A hopeful bloom of blossom trees and just a slither of a cold bite in the air (as opposed to bone-chilling windy outings) means one thing only – summer is coming in hot for the Northern Hemisphere.
Of course, our thoughts turn immediately to the obvious – Kate’s heavenly summer dresses.
But this year, the royal’s summer is undoubtedly going to look a little different – the Duchess’ usual public appearances where she so gloriously wears said summer dresses will be cancelled or rescheduled.
But in these dark times, hope prevails.
In fact, it just prevailed in its purest form – a surprise video of the Duchess and her ridiculously adorable family.
And what she decided to wear for said video has cured our royal fashion withdrawals at a simple glance.
The Cambridge family appeared in a sweet video from their isolated country home where they joined in the Clap for Carers initiative.
(BBC One)Yep, you can’t deny Kate’s gorgeous floral dress, which is by British label Ghost, is nothing short of stunning.
The long-sleeved AUD$183 design features a running floral print with subtle shades of rose reds and creams throughout.
A ruffle at the bottom of the midi-length design finishes it off to perfection, and the Duchess’ bouncy blow wave was the ultimate cherry on top of the fashion-forward look.
Of course, fans were immediately taken with the design – it’s not often we see Kate, the unofficial Queen of recycled outfits, wear something entirely new.
And not least because the new design was also worn from the comfort of her home – which totally justifies the urge to have a little dress up of our own, despite being at home 24/7.
Kate’s frock is designed by British label Ghost, and is known as the ‘Anouk’ dress. It’s miraculously still available online (for now!) via John Lewis and Partners for $183. Order it online here.
Another reason why we love Kate’s dress even more? It had a subtle message behind it.
You might have noticed all five of the Cambridges wore shades of blue for the video clip, and for a good reason. As they Clapped for Carers as part of the British initiative honouring workers on the frontline during the pandemic, their medical scrub blue showed their support loud and clear.
And if you were after something similar to Kate’s design, but not quite in a place to be budgeting for the exact same dress, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of similar styles out there available to order online.
Have a look at our favourite dupes below:
This lighter design by Topshop is perfect for those in-between seasons kind of days. $59.97, buy it online via Topshop here.
This short-sleeve style from Marks and Spencer is another option for a lazy day at home, or for all those coveted barbecues to come. $85, buy it online here.
An evening twist on the summery style, this design by The Fated is a go-to if you’re looking for something that’ll take you from day to night. $35.99, buy it online via The Iconic here.
For something a little fun, this Petal + Pup dress featured a shorter, tiered design which we’re vibing with in a big way. $79.95, buy it online here.
