You don’t have to be a royal to dress like one, as Princess Kate Middleton proved with her latest high-low ensemble at the London Horse Guards Parade on Thursday, May 8.
Middleton, 43, also offered a masterclass in poised repetition, stepping out in her beloved white Self-Portrait dress ($670) and black Chanel bag ($5,200).
The dress has a business-up-top, party-down-below design – a tailored blazer giving way to a soft, pleated cream chiffon skirt. This clever construction creates the illusion of separates, offering an unexpected contrast within a single garment and endless outfit opportunities.
The skirt’s soft, almost ethereal quality, particularly in contrast to the structured bouclé blazer, introduced an element of unexpected lightness and movement to Middleton’s typically more formal attire. While not overtly sheer, it deviated from the heavier fabrics for royal engagements.
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This subtle hint of transparency felt like a subtle yet significant stylistic evolution for the Princess of Wales, demonstrating a move toward contemporary trends that still manage to feel elegant.
A signature design from the label renowned for its polished femininity has now graced the royal stage for a third time, as seen in 2021 for a reception at Buckingham Palace and in 2022 for “Party at the Palace,” a concert celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee.
Its latest reappearance underscores Middleton’s astute approach to high-street fashion, favoring investment pieces with endless versatility. Notably, the Princess of Wales also possesses the same Self-Portrait dress in classic black, further solidifying the brand’s place in her wardrobe.
This time around, Middleton imbued the familiar silhouette with a fresh twist. The princess adorned her half-up hairstyle with Jigsaw’s velvet bow ($18), which nodded to the coquettecore trend (a.k.a. the Gen Z aesthetic characterized by whimsical details, like bows, lace and pearls). It was a subtle reminder that there’s room for a little sartorial flirtation even amidst royal protocol.
The ever-chic Chanel Classic Mini Flap Bag in black quilted leather completed her ensemble. This luxurious accessory has become another consistent element in the royal’s appearances. It accompanied her during a visit to Marseille, France, in 2023, to the Festival of Remembrance in London in 2024, and more recently, during a Holocaust Memorial Day service in January 2025.
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This consistent re-emergence of the iconic Chanel bag alongside pieces like the Self-Portrait dress perfectly exemplifies the Princess of Wales’ adeptness at curating an aspirational yet accessible capsule wardrobe that she can rely on year after year – and we’re taking notes.
