Subtle style tweaks that make a huge difference
Bardot neck becomes a bang-up-todate square
KATE has long been an advocate of re-wearing items from her extensive Royal wardrobe, but instead of simply slipping back into this elegant Alexander McQueen gown (worn last at the 2017 Bafta Awards) the Duchess, or perhaps her savvy stylist, had it reworked, taking it from the off-the-shoulder Bardot neckline popular a few years ago and replacing it with the short sleeves and square neck seen all over the 2019 spring/summer catwalks.
Sloaney knits and boots get nipped in and laced up
KATE tends to rely on Breton tops for less formal events, but for a dresseddown visit a fortnight ago, she chose a knitted top from J.Crew (a fashion-insider favourite) instead. And worn with these Chloé lace-up boots (£360), instead of conservative flats or wedges, she is certainly making a style statement. In fact, attending a similar Scout event back in 2016, the Duchess of Cambridge sported the same sweater, jean and flat boot formula. But with a few noticeable differences: she’s since swapped muted, oversized knitwear for slim-fit alternatives, and long riding boots for fashion’s favourite thick-soled hiking boots. It’s these small but considered new additions that elevate Kate’s otherwise casual outfits into something far more chic and current.
The Gucci blouse worn back to front
EARLIER this month, Kate attended the Henry Fawcett Children’s Centre wearing arguably her most stylish outfit yet: a purple Gucci blouse, with navy wide-leg trousers – unusual for someone who usually favours dresses in a formal setting and skinny jeans for casual events. You might spot the designer blouse is actually worn back to front – not a fashion faux pas, but most likely a smart styling move by Ginnie. Her accessories have stepped up a gear too, from clutches to tophandled bags – like this Aspinal Midi Mayfair bag, £495.
A cape to replace the coat dress
DURING a walkabout in Northern Ireland, the Duchess of Cambridge wore a £1,735, fashionforward coat from Mulberry. Rather than her usual choice of formal coat dresses in autumnal hues or tartans, this cape-style coat felt fresh and modern. It nods to fashion’s musthave pastel trend, in a soft powder blue. Accessories are low-key to offset the coat’s directional silhouette – typical of Ginnie’s wearable styling.
Got a grip on the fashion insiders’ latest It bag
WHILE this look, right, feels more in keeping with Kate’s former wardrobe, one item stands out. In Blackpool earlier this month, the Duchess completed her emerald outfit with a box bag by Manu Atelier which costs £408. Lesserknown than most of Kate’s favoured accessory brands, Manu Atelier is a mid-priced handbag label created by two Turkish sisters, which is currently favoured by fashion editors and social media influencers alike.
Modest chic with white-hot heels
MODEST silhouettes are trending – think high necklines, full-length balloon-shaped sleeves and hemlines that fall below the knee. And while this beautiful frock, reportedly created by a private dressmaker, could perhaps be a coincidental wardrobe choice, we’re betting this was in fact an expert move by Ginnie. She may have also been behind Kate’s decision to embrace one of this season’s most popular footwear trends – white high heels.