Kate Middleton has been spotted in a Zara blazer, Rixo’s polka dot dress, and LK Bennett on too many occasions to count, but when she wants to make an impact, she turns to Self-Portrait - and for good reason. The Princess of Wales stepped out at Horse Guards Parade in London this week in a white Self-Portrait blazer dress that’s already proven its staying power in her wardrobe.
She first wore it in 2021, then again for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, and now it seems third time’s a charm as it has made another stylish appearance. The dress in question is Self-Portrait’s Cream Tailored Bouclé and Chiffon Midi Dress, a signature design from the brand known for its feminine and polished silhouettes. The structured blazer-style top contrasts with the soft pleated chiffon skirt, making it look like two different pieces of clothing when, in fact, it's a dress. It’s one of those rare pieces that works for both official events and elevated summer plans, especially when you factor in styling.
(Photo by Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images)
This time around, Middleton gave the look a fresh spin, leaning into a softer aesthetic with a half-up, half-down hairstyle and an oversized bow, a subtle nod to the coquette trend. The aesthetic, popularised by Gen Z on TikTok, taps into delicate details like bows, lace, and pearls, making the royal's styling feel surprisingly on trend. She also paired the dress with vintage-inspired pearl jewellery from [Susan Caplan {href='https://susancaplan.co.uk/products/1980s-vintage-faux-pearl-collar-necklace?' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow' class='add-referrer-link'}) which is currently out of stock. The brand's Instagram said: ’We are honoured that the Princess of Wales has chosen to wear our earrings & necklace for the VE Day concert in Horse Guards Parade, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.’
The Princess of Wales is quietly building a capsule wardrobe of standout pieces she can rely on year after year - and we’re taking notes. If you’re ready to channel the same timeless energy this summer, shop her dress below and a few editor-approved pieces to help you get the look.
Shop: Kate Middleton's Horse Guards Parade Look
www.self-portrait.com
It looks like a blazer and a skirt, but it’s not. It is, in fact, a long-sleeved bodice that is fitted at the waist and falls to a sheer skirt. Kate has worn this dress on two previous occasions.
mintvelvet.com
Similar to the Self-Portrait dress, this Mint Velvet style has puff sleeves and crystal buttons for added glitz.
www.mytheresa.com
This is a very similar style dress to the one worn by Kate.
www.wolfandbadger.com
To accessorise, Kate opted for a black bow. This one from Wolf & Badger is practically identical.
www.selfridges.com
This bow is made from 100% silk and has beautifully topstitched trims.
Renee Washington, Grazia's digital fashion and beauty writer, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie..