Designer to the royals, Amanda Wakeley, reveals why Kate Middleton’s style selections at the moment are making extra of an affect than ever earlier than

This year, the Princess of Wales has re-emerged as the dazzling jewel of the British royal family. Making a triumphant return to official duties, her fashion choices have reflected the evolving role she plays in the monarchy.

With every public appearance the princess has not only reinforced her role as a steadfast figure in the royal fold, but also reminded us why she remains the undisputed queen of royal fashion.

British designer and host of podcast Style DNA, Amanda Wakeley OBE believes that by Kate appearing less frequently her fashion made more of an impact: ‘Catherine has ensured every public outing is a moment to remember.’

‘Her return to public duties feels intentional and focused, which makes her fashion even more impactful. Less is more, and she embodies this beautifully.’

With the Princess of Wales’ return to public engagements came the proclivity for her favourite designers, wearing looks by Alexander McQueen and Jenny Packham, as well as a dress by Safiyaa and a coat by Catherine Walker.

By choosing her favourite designers repeatedly, the princess demonstrates loyalty and trust. Wakeley explains: ‘Designers like Alexander McQueen and Jenny Packham know her style, allowing them to create pieces that align with her vision while remaining authentic to her style.’

Officially returning to public engagements in June at the Trooping the Colour ceremony, Kate wore an Audrey Hepburn-inspired dress by Jenny Packham, which was Wakeley’s favourite look of the year.

For her first outing since taking an extended break from the spotlight, the Princess of Wales reached for one of her trusted go-to designers, Jenny Packham

Kate’s simple dress was accented with grosgrain black and white ribbon bow and belt and paired with a wide-brim hat by Philip Treacy, the upcycled dress felt reassuringly familiar and, most of all, like classic Kate

Arriving at St Mary Magdalene Church in Norfolk, Kate continued that formula in a green Alexander McQueen coat designed by Sarah Burton, which was previously worn on a trip to Leeds in 2023. A tartan scarf and Gina Foster hat featuring a playful bow detail brought her signature festive touch to the ensemble

For her biggest return to date, Kate’s festive red Alexander McQueen outfit was a poignant and heartfelt show of optimism. Opting for one of her go-to designers, her vibrant double-breasted coat featured black buttons on the cuff and front, and the royal styled it with a large black velvet hair bow from Jigsaw at the collar

The Princess of Wales wore a burgundy Alexander McQueen coat to welcome the Amir of Qatar to London. Her tonal outfit not only championed the colour of the season but paid homage to the Qatar flag. Kate accessorised with an elegant matching hat from Sahar Millinery

British designer and host of podcast Style DNA, Amanda Wakeley OBE sees the future queen’s wardrobe as a masterclass in diplomancy and symbolism

‘It’s the perfect example of her ability to command attention while exuding warmth and charm. I particularly loved the way she had upcycled this dress with the addition of the black and white trims, totally re-inventing it and reinforcing her inspiring sustainability credentials.’

As a future queen consort, Kate’s wardrobe is no longer just about style, it’s a masterclass in diplomacy and symbolism.

Her outfits are imbued with meaning, showcasing her understanding of how fashion can communicate values.

The Princess of Wales’ looks dominate because they are designed to strike the perfect balance between elegance and accessibility, while being occasion appropriate.

‘Catherine understands the power of fashion to convey her role as a modern royal while remaining relatable,’ explains designer Wakeley: ‘She seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary elements, ensuring her outfits feel aspirational yet timeless.’

Many comparisons are drawn between Kate and the late Princess Diana, however, what sets their fashion apart is Middleton’s distinctly modern approach to royal style.

While Diana was known for her bold and sometimes experimental choices, Kate’s wardrobe leans towards timeless elegance and understated sophistication.

‘Diana’s style was ground-breaking for her time; she brought personality and emotion to her clothing choices,’ says Amanda Wakeley: ‘Catherine builds on that legacy with a modern, strategic approach to royal fashion.’

Kate Middleton wore a black coat dress by Alexander McQueen and a matching quilted Chanel clutch to the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall. The princess accessorised with a delicate pearl necklace by Monica Vinader and paid a touching tribute to Princess Diana with a pair of Collingwood diamond and pearl earrings that were gifted to Diana by the jeweller

For the Remembrance Day Service Kate reimagined her signature style, re-wearing a favourite military-inspired coat by Catherine Walker and updating it with a velvet bow and replacing the black buttons with velvet ones. The Catherine Walker design was initially worn with tasselled epaulets in 2020 for her balcony appearance at the Cenotaph

The royal wore a brown Alexander McQueen coat for a visit to Southport Community Centre in October. In her first official royal engagement, Kate opted to layer her coat over a burgundy polka dot dress from high street label Whistles which was previously worn in 2018

The Princess of Wales was regal in purple for the Wimbledon final when making an appearance at the famed tennis tournament. Her vibrant purple Safiyaa dress featured a ruched bodice and softly flared skirt, and received a standing ovation as she took her seat in the royal box. Kate’s elegant dress, which featured a slightly modified neckline from the original design, was styled with an LK Bennett bag

‘For me, they are both spectacular women with impeccable fashion, and both will remain part of royal fashion history for so many of their classic, statement looks.’

As Kate turns 43 it’s clear that her return to royal duties last year was been nothing short of spectacular, balancing tradition with modernity, duty with individuality.

Amanda Wakeley concludes that Catherine’s fashion will remain unparalleled because she has established herself as the epitome of consistency and grace: ‘Every outfit, from bold reds to understated neutrals and monochromes reflect her poise and respect for the occasion. 

She prioritises timeless elegance over fleeting trends, which ensures her style choices are enduring.’