If you're a regular reader of Who What Wear, you're probably well acquainted with Kate Middleton's wardrobe. She dresses pretty classically, but occasionally she'll surprise us with something a bit different (case in point: this shorts and trainers look). The list of the designers the Princess of Wales often turns to is pretty definite: often Alexander McQueen and Jenny Packham and occasionally Erdem, Self-Portrait and Roksanda. But it's not just the more expensive end of the spectrum she's a fan of. She regularly wears high-street pieces from a range of brands, from Superga sneakers to & Other Stories dresses. But, and I'm going to put my stake in the ground here, her favourite store has to be Zara.
For years she's worn pieces from the high-street brand and always makes them look super expensive. From blazers, to trousers, Kate sprinkles Zara pieces throughout her wardrobe—from casual outfits to evening events.
Catherine's Zara obsession is well documented.
Most recently, Kate Middleton stepped out in a Zara skirt; one which, although it may be from a previous season, feels incredibly current, and it's all down to its silhouette.
During a visit to South Wales with her husband, Prince William, the Princess of Wales opted for a classic houndstooth midi skirt from Zara. While miniskirts have been dominating designer and high-street collections for the last few months, this year we're seeing a shift towards fuller midi and maxi skirting once more; a trend that works perfectly with Kate's classic and elegant aesthetic.
As you might have guessed, being past season, her skirt is now out of stock. However, the brand is backing the full skirt in a big way this season, so there are plenty of worthy homages you can invest in instead.
Catherine wearing a Zara skirt.
Her affinity towards Zara also made me wonder about all the other times that she's worn the Spanish mega-brand and the pieces she always wears over all the others. My theory is that she always shops the basics so they look more expensive. But then when it comes to accessories, she'll always go a bit more left-field and experiment. Keep scrolling for your guide to shopping Zara like Kate Middleton.
First, Shop Zara's Full Skirts
This looks so high end, especially when worn with the matching blazer.
This piece looks so premium.
This looks so sleek, especially when styled with a cream roll neck, Kate Middleton-style.
The Princess of Wales Wearing Zara
Culottes
Style Notes: Culottes are a relatively new regular addition to K-Mid's wardrobe, but we're into them.
These classic cream ones are the kind you could genuinely wear to the office as well as the beach.
We think Kate would love this navy blue.
Blazers
Style Notes: The Duchess of Cambridge has form when it comes to wearing blazers from the high street store. This blue one with gold buttons is one of her favourites that she's regularly repeated.
A classic Kate style.
This white version looks really expensive.
Dresses
Style Notes: This might have been from 2011 when Kate was off on her honeymoon post–royal wedding, but it's proof that she's always loved the brand's dresses and its more basic pieces.
On Kate: Zara red knitted dress (sold out); Hobbs coat
The Duchess of Cambridge wearing a Zara dress
The Duchess of Cambridge wearing a Zara dress
The Duchess of Cambridge wearing a Zara dress
Shop Belted Dresses:
Take note from Kate and go for a monochrome print.
Another beautiful monchrome dress.
Jeans
Style Notes: The section that Kate shops from the most is the denim section, always opting for the skinny jeans.
Every wardrobe needs a pair of blue jeans.
Skinny jeans are popping up again on the fashion set.
Accessories
Style Notes: The Duchess of Cambridge knows that Zara is a great place to find fun but chic accessories such as this headband. It's a great way to freshen up an otherwise more conservative look.
Kate always opts for a subtle earring.
A true wardrobe staple.
Next up, the biggest spring/summer 2023 fashion trends you need to know.
This post was previously published and has since been updated.
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