The internet can't stop talking (obsessing) about Kate Middleton's mysterious whereabouts and whether or not she is or isn't MIA. Here's a quick recap in case you aren't across the latest in royal watching. The Princess of Wales had abdominal surgery in mid-January and prior to this unexpected announcement, hadn't made a public appearance since December 2023. Then the real fun started. A photo posted by Kensington Palace of the Princess of Wales posing with her three children in celebration of Mother's Day in the UK was recalled by media outlets after they discovered the image had been manipulated. Middleton later admitted it was edited.
And back in March when the princess was snapped by paparazzi riding in a car with her mother Carole conspiracy theories abound that it wasn't actually her — the images were grainy and the royal appeared to be hiding behind sunglasses. This past weekend, the furor continued when a smiling Middleton was seen on an outing at a Farm Shop with Prince William and many claimed it was a body double. The whole Kate Middleton is missing saga, has resulted in the royal having to make an early return to official duties. Not great news for her, but a relief for us fashion lovers missing Kate Middleton's style. Whether she is going full-throttle regal princess, flexing her modern fashionista muscles, playing the lady, or giving off-duty mom vibes, Princess Kate cycles through fashion looks and trends like a Queen.
Regal Princess Glamour
For the Diplomatic Reception on December 5th, 2023–one of the more recent outings–Kate stunned in a pale pink sequined gown by Jenny Packham, one of her favorite designers for glamorous event-ready dresses. Kate was the epitome of royal elegance in this long-sleeved column dress, complete with shimmering embellished accents and padded shoulders, but what really commanded attention was the breathtakingly beautiful headpiece known as Queen Mary's 'Lover's Knot' Tiara. Topped with upright pearls and diamonds, the sparkler has been passed down through generations of royalty and was a favorite of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana. Finishing off the look was a pair of diamond chandelier earrings (also from the royal vault), a matching pink satin Prada clutch, and silver mesh heels with Swarovski crystals.
Bossing Up in Powersuits
Kate loves a power suit and is often seen sporting double-breasted jackets and slim-cut trousers. This peachy pink number by Alexander McQueen, which the princess wore to meet British Health Secretary Sajid Javid in June 2022, was no exception. The notched lapels and strong shoulders showed that she meant business, while the streamlined silhouette elongated her figure. She completed the look with a crisp white tee and matching pink suede pumps.
Modern Fashionista
In October 2022, the princess stepped out for an engagement with The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood (which she launched in 2021 to bring awareness to social challenges faced by children) looking fresh and refined in a pop of yellow. This was also Kate's first appearance since the death of Queen Elizabeth the prior September.
She sported a belted mustard-colored dress by British designer Karen Millen, complete with pleated details and a v-neckline. The hue complimented the caramel-colored highlights in her hair. She polished off the look with pumps by Gianvito Rossi in navy suede. While Kate often wears British designers like Alexander McQueen and LK Bennet, this was one of her first Karen Millen ensembles since her pre-royal life.
Ladylike Femininity
Kate looked feminine and polished in this powder blue Elie Saab ensemble. She tucked a sheer blouse with appliques and bow details into a coordinating high-waisted tulle maxi skirt. The monochromatic pastel look was the perfect choice for the occasion–the Buckingham Palace Garden Party in 2023. The duchess punctuated her look with a stunning pair of blue topaz and diamond earrings by Kiki McDonough and silver pumps from her go-to footwear designer Gianvito Rossi. She accessorized further with an asymmetrical hat with a large flower accent by London-based milliner Philip Treacy. Treacy famously designed all the hats for Prince Harry and Megan Markle's wedding and has created whimsical pieces for Sarah Jessica Parker and Lady Gaga.
Elevated Nautical
Kate walked down the aisle on April 29, 2011 in a long-sleeved lace dress by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, a pivotal moment that not only solidified her status as Princess of Wales but also earned her the title of fashion icon. Alexander McQueen quickly became a favorite for the princess, and she sported many looks like this cream cable knit dress with nautical-inspired details. The body-skimming drop-waist silhouette flattered Kate's long, slender frame, while the striped trim added that classic element that she has become known for. The balance of understated styling–navy suede McQueen pumps, a chic pony, and subtle diamond and sapphire jewels–allowed the playful dress to take center stage.
Off-Duty Chic
Showing that she is equally as put-together in everyday life as she is at royal events, Kate sported this down-to-earth, yet classic pairing last May while volunteering for a scout troop with her children in Slough, England. A light blue chambray button-down, skinny jeans with cargo pockets, and Chelsea boots were the perfect choice for a day outdoors, a casual and practical take on her signature elegance.
Welcome back Kate, we've missed you.
