The Princess of Wales made a significant solo appearance on Anzac Day, attending the Parade Service at the Cenotaph, where she laid a wreath on behalf of her father-in-law King Charles.
Kate was impeccably dressed for the poignant occasion, opting for a bespoke Givenchy coat, teamed with a Jane Taylor hat, Gianvito Rossi court shoes and her trusted DeMellier bag.
The look struck a chord with Claire Cisotti, Assistant Royals Editor at dailymail.co.uk, who said the 'cut and fit of the Princess of Wales' navy and white coat was nothing short of spectacular,' adding that the Sarah Burton for Givenchy creation proves 'no one dresses the future Queen quite like her favourite designer.'
A Nod to Royal Heritage
At first glance, the look felt simply elegant and perfectly put together, with a subtle retro sensibility. But on closer inspection, clear parallels emerged between Kate's outfit and one worn by her late mother-in-law, Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1995, when she presented new colours to the Light Dragoons Regiment in Bergen, Germany.
Diana's navy two-piece, designed by Catherine Walker, combined a pencil skirt with a sharply tailored blazer, featuring striking white contrast lapels - remarkably similar to Kate's modern interpretation. While Kate kept to her preferred longer hemline, the choice of outfit showcased a refined take on classic tailoring with a clear nod to royal heritage.
Loyalty to Sarah Burton
Kate has remained loyal to Sarah Burton, who famously designed her wedding dress during her time as Creative Director at Alexander McQueen, and has continued to collaborate with the designer since her move to Givenchy. Claire said: 'The design and colour is timeless; she will be able to wear this in ten years' time and it still won't have dated. It reminded me of the gorgeous outfits she normally wears to Trooping the Colour, and as she was laying wreaths at the Cenotaph to mark Anzac day for the fallen troops, it felt totally appropriate.'
Indeed, it remains a pairing that feels perfectly aligned, helping Kate to define her signature aesthetic over the years.
Accessories with Sentimental Value
In a further touching tribute, Kate accessorised her outfit with Diana's sapphire double cluster earrings and a coordinating necklace from G. Collins & Sons.
DeMellier's Nano Montreal bag, which the Princess was seen carrying, quickly flew off the shelves following her first appearance with it. It's easy to see why the style resonates with both Kate and the public; the timeless top-handle design is sleek and compact, with a minimalist aesthetic that feels effortlessly enduring rather than trend-led.
The British accessories label has become a firm favourite of Kate, who has the design in both navy and toffee. She also owns the Hudson bag, another sell-out style that has since been restocked online.
How to Recreate Kate's Look
If you're keen to bring a touch of Kate's regal elegance into your wardrobe, well-tailored outerwear and coordinating accessories are the perfect place to start. Explore some of my top finds below.
- Coats: Coast Lisa Tan Tailored Crepe Belted Coat; The Fold Clever Crepe Finchley Coat (was £495); Hobbs Felicia Waterproof Jacket (was £219); Karen Millen PU Mix Midi Coat (was £429); Hobbs Sally Jacket (was £169); Karen Millen Tipped Jacket (was £219).
- Bags: Phase Eight Suede Top Handle Bag (was £79); Aspinal of London Midi Mayfair Bag; Strathberry Mini Tote; Tusting Mini Holly Bag.
- Shoes: Gianvito Rossi 105mm Suede Pumps; Emmy London Rebecca Suede High Heels; Carvela Corletta Court Heels (were £119); Dorothy Perkins Wide Fit Court Shoes (were £35).
