This festive season, two of the most watched women in the world have aligned on a strikingly similar sartorial choice. The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, and the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, have both been spotted championing rich shades of green, cementing the colour as the definitive choice for holiday party dressing this year.
The Royal Green Inspirations
Meghan Markle, 44, recently launched her lifestyle project, With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, with a glamorous promotional image. In the shot, she is seen preparing a festive spread while wearing a sleek, emerald green halter dress. The gown is the $1,695 Ushuaia dress from British brand Galvan, a piece she first wore for a Variety magazine shoot back in 2022.
Not to be outdone, Kate Middleton, 43, made a stunning appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in London. She chose a $1,800 green velvet gown by Talbot Runhof, featuring elegant ruching, which perfectly captured the opulent spirit of the event. Their coordinated, yet independent, embrace of the hue has sparked a major trend for the holiday season.
Expert Insight: Why Green is the Gold Standard
According to etiquette expert Jo Hayes, who spoke to the Daily Mail, the choice is no coincidence. "Green is gold when it comes to stylish holiday dressing," she stated, explaining that the festive hue encapsulates the joy of the season. Hayes noted that with its multitude of shades, from deep forest to bright emerald, there is a flattering green for everyone. She recommends opting for luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk to emulate a royal aesthetic without the royal price tag, adding, "As a general rule, the darker the shade, the more regal it looks."
Affordable Alternatives for Every Occasion
For those inspired by the duchesses but working with a smaller budget, numerous high-street and online brands offer glamorous alternatives. For a relaxed holiday gathering, Tuckernuck's Pomander Place Hunter Green Velvet Selena Top ($128) provides a dark, velvety option perfect for cosy nights.
Reality influencer Jen Affleck has collaborated with Cupshe on a casual, off-the-shoulder slouchy sweater mini dress for just $35. The same brand offers the Bow & Behold Green Sweater Dress for $36, featuring a subtle cut-out back suitable for both office parties and festive fun.
For a more formal, classic silhouette, Reformation's Naira dress in forest green ($278) is a full-length option with a V-neck and puff sleeves. The brand's Leannah Dress in forest plaid ($228) offers a shorter, ultra-feminine alternative. ASTR the Label provides another elegant option with its Deitra satin midi dress for $164, a favourite among numerous celebrities.
Remarkably, QVC offers the Isaac Mizrahi Burnout Velvet Long Sleeve Dress for only $19, a wrap-style piece designed to flatter all figures. To complete the look, footwear can add a luxurious touch. Meghan's beloved brand, Birdies, has released a green velvet loafer, the Starling Monaco Bow ($175), featuring a hand-stitched crystal bow for a festive sparkle.
From the most formal events to casual date nights, the royal endorsement of green this season provides a clear and stylish directive. By choosing rich fabrics and deep shades, and exploring the wealth of affordable options available, anyone can channel the regal elegance of the Duchess of Sussex and the Princess of Wales this holiday season.
