Kate Middleton Borrows This Fashion Tactic from the Queen
There’s a reason for the bright colors.
![duchess catherine](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/w52xBC2xiA9g4TinApoYnb-415-80.jpg)
When it comes to fashion, Kate Middleton never misses. She’s always the epitome of elegance, whether in a laid-back blazer or a radiant gown reminiscent of Princess Diana. (Don’t worry, we’ve rounded up some of her best looks of all time for you.) And while royal experts speculate that her style evolution is proof that she’s preparing to take on quenly duties one day, it turns out that, in at least one regard, she’s been taking a page from the Queen’s own style book.
It’s been a big week for Kate and Prince William as they prepare to award the first-ever Earthshot Prize for environmental change-makers on Sunday night, and the pair (as well as the rest of the royals) have been sharing their messages about climate change with the press. We even noted that, at one environment-focused event, Duchess Kate donned a grass green ensemble that made her look very Mother Gaia. People even noted that it’s the same coat she wore to an event in 2014, which William told her was “a bit bright.” (We’re glad to see his sassy critique didn’t dissuade her from donning it again.)
But those bright color choices are the whole point. The publication also noted that in the 2016 documentary The Queen at 90, Queen Elizabeth’s daughter-in-law Sophie, Countess of Wessex, explained why the Queen can always be seen in public in bright jewel tones—like the royal blue she donned this weekend:
The Queen looking radiant in royal blue on October 16.
According to Countess Sophie:
"[The Queen] needs to stand out for people to be able to say 'I saw the Queen.' Don't forget that when she turns up somewhere, the crowds are two, three, four, 10, 15 deep, and someone wants to be able to say they saw a bit of the Queen's hat as she went past."
And as Kate Middleton steps into her role as the future of the royal family, she may be doing the same with her brightly colored ensembles. Her outfits do tend stand out in a crowd, after all.
Whatever the reason, though, Kate has proven that she’s the latest fashion icon in a royal family that’s historically been full of them.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Marie Claire is committed to celebrating the richness and scope of women's lives. We're known for our award-winning features, thoughtful essays and op-eds, deep commitment to sustainable fashion, and buzzy interviews and reviews. Reaching millions of women every month, MarieClaire.com is an internationally-recognized destination for celebrity news, fashion trends, beauty recommendations, and renowned investigative packages.
-
Our Complete Quiet Luxury Shopping Guide
30 quality closet classics that always have—and always will—endure.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford Medal in Mother-Daughter Olympic Matching
The pair touched down in Paris wearing coordinating navy looks.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
Prince Harry Reveals Royal Family Rift Was Worsened by Tabloids
"Yeah, that’s certainly a central piece to it."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Harry Reveals Royal Family Rift Was Worsened by Tabloids
"Yeah, that’s certainly a central piece to it."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Did Prince William Remove Queen Camilla's Sister From His Payroll?
She was hired by King Charles in 2005.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Princess Charlotte, Prince George, and King Charles Have the Cutest Matching Friendship Bracelets
And fans think Charlotte was responsible.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince George Is Intentionally Being Raised Much Differently Than His Father Prince William Was, Even Though Both Are Heir to the Throne
“William still has painful memories of his own childhood and how he hated the persistent attention.”
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
In Naming Princess Charlotte, Prince William Poignantly Fulfilled a Long Ago Promise to His Late Mother, Princess Diana
Diana would be “over the moon” about it, her friend says.
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
Prince William and Princess Kate Attending Sporting Events with Their Kids Is a “Much Needed Distraction” from Kate’s Ongoing Cancer Battle, Royal Biographer Says
“To say sports play a huge part in the lives of the royals is a massive understatement.”
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
After Meeting a Teenage Prince William for the First Time, Then Camilla Parker-Bowles Quipped “I Need a Gin and Tonic,” Royal Author Writes
Still largely known as “the other woman,” Camilla was “decidedly anxious” about meeting the future king.
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
Prince William Was Reportedly Advised to Sign a Prenup When He Married Kate Middleton 13 Years Ago—But He Refused
Thirteen years later, the Prince and Princess of Wales’ marriage seems stronger than ever.
By Rachel Burchfield Published