Just over a week before the Trumps’ much-anticipated trip to London, Kate Middleton keeps up with her busy official schedule and today leads a series of events celebrating the skill, creativity, and craftsmanship of British textile makers.
© Getty ImagesHer first stop was Sudbury Silk Mills in Sudbury, Suffolk, followed by Marina Mill in Cuxton, Kent. For this fashion-focused outing, she chose a look that perfectly represents traditional British tailoring while adding youthful and feminine touches ideal for a morning engagement.
© UK Press via Getty ImagesClassic British tailoring is one of the most iconic in the world, known for its elegance, timelessness, and high quality. However, far from the strict dress codes of a century ago, today suits are also perfectly adapted to the female figure and make an ideal choice for both everyday wear and formal occasions. The Princess of Wales, a devoted fan of this style, is a clear example. In three of her four engagements since the summer break, we have seen her embrace this look, which is especially fitting for the transition between seasons.
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© UK Press via Getty ImagesFrom Edward VII to Kate: The Prince of Wales check pattern
Among all the patterns that make a comeback every fall, this time Kate chose one with special significance: Prince of Wales. The origin of this fabric, known for its overlapping vertical and horizontal stripes with houndstooth details forming large checks, goes back to the 19th century, when the Countess of Seafield used it to dress her workers. It became popular thanks to how often the Prince of Wales, Edward VII, great-grandfather of Queen Elizabeth II and therefore great-great-grandfather of today’s Prince of Wales, William, Kate’s husband, wore it.
© Chris Jackson/Getty ImagesMost often this fabric appears in designs with neutral tones such as beige, brown, or especially gray, like the one chosen by the Princess. In her case, she opted for a suit made up of a fitted lapel jacket and slightly flared trousers. The set is by the English brand Bella Freud and is priced at around 1,420 dollars.
© Samir Hussein/WireImageThis time, she chose a dark knit sweater with a round neckline to give the look a more modern touch, instead of pairing it with a white shirt or a bow blouse as she has done before. She finished it off with a simple black leather belt and matching pumps, a suede pair with a pointed toe and slim heel. For jewelry, she wore gold hoop earrings decorated with small stones and a delicate gold chain with the initials of her three children.
© Getty ImagesAs for her beauty look, she wore her hair down with a center part and her signature soft, romantic waves from mid-length to ends. Her makeup was fresh and luminous with a natural finish, giving the spotlight to her eyes through black eyeliner and long, voluminous lashes.
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