The 9 style lessons of Kate Middleton
Leave it to Kate Middleton to make Zara's site crash. When she wears something, everyone wants it. Kate may still be a princess, but she is the queen of good taste and style. She doesn't do it alone, by the way; that would be logistically almost impossible: those outfits need to be bought, transported, steamed, you name it) and for that, she has help from Virginia Chadwyck-Healy, a friend from her student days. Together they developed an elegant, contemporary look that we have all applauded at some point. Interested in Kate's style? Take these lessons to heart.
1. Be careful with trends
Having your own style is more important than going along with every fashion wind. Make sure that 80 percent of your style has your signature and embellish it with an occasional medical outburst in the form of a bag, a certain color (neon), or material.
2. Throw away old shoes
That good Kate used to be seen in some awkward ankle boots that she wore on a few too many occasions. Not princess-worthy, of course, but it was cute.
3. Buy in doubles
To avoid the above, just buy a number of something that is good. Two dresses that are beautiful and comfortable, but for example in different colors. Or just three pairs of the same shoes.
4. The right skirt length
In the past, Kate would sometimes show off her legs in a skirt that was a bit too short, which earned her a corrective tap from the queen. By now, the skirts are knee-length or longer. Typical Kate and very elegant is the mid-calf length, so up to halfway down the shin.
5. Think diplomatically
For Kate, it is important to refer to the country she is visiting in her clothing style. For example, by dressing in the color of their flag or using a print of something that is a national symbol, or by wearing a designer from that country. When Kate visited the poor neighborhoods in India, she also wore a cheap but beautiful Indian dress. Because it would be inappropriate to show up there in a runway item.
6. Party? Choose white or light shades
Suppose, suppose, suppose, you have a real party coming up. A gala, for example. You can bet all your coins that 98 percent of the guests will be wearing a black dress. If you want to stand out, choose a light dress. Unless you are a guest at a wedding.
7. Go for color
When the queen is not around, Kate shines. Otherwise, she holds back a bit. But go all out with yellow and roar with red. Guys, alliterations everywhere, but just look at what color does for you. And for the people around you.
8. Do something with a hat
Or a wide headband, or a fisherman's cap. Really, a headpiece is everything if you want to make an impression. And even in a casual way.
9. Choose an elegant coat
Often your outfit is hidden under your coat. Especially if you live in a cold country like England. Therefore, choose a coat that resembles a dress. Or a statement coat. Then you are a sight to behold, even when you visit Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon at ten degrees and drizzling rain.
