In advance of tomorrow night’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards, a new video has been released with the Duchess, as well as a few still photos.
The video and stills were shot at Hintze Hall at the Natural History Museum; the Duchess is the Museum’s royal patron. Here is a look at the video.
We’re thrilled to announce Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge @KensingtonRoyal, Patron of @NHM_London, will reveal this year’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year at our first virtual awards ceremony, livestreamed 13 October, 20.00 BST: https://t.co/DErYnYe58q #WPY56 pic.twitter.com/CCisxcuwLO
— Wildlife Photographer of the Year (@NHM_WPY) October 12, 2020
Kate will announce the winner as part of the first virtual awards ceremony for the prestigious award. The event will be streamed live starting at 8pm in London; that is 3pm on the east coast, noon on the west coast. You can watch the awards via the Museum’s YouTube account and Facebook page.
More from The Daily Mail:
Now in its fifty-sixth instalment, the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the world’s longest running and most prestigious annual wildlife photography competition.
Harnessing the uniquely emotive and impactful power of photography, Wildlife Photographer of the Year works in partnership with the photographic community to inspire millions of people around the world each year to think differently about their relationship with nature and become advocates for the planet.
As noted in the graphic above, the awards will be hosted by photographer/broadcaster Chris Packham, and his stepdaughter, Megan McCubbin. Below you see them in an episode of their Self-Isolating Bird Club, a “virtual space for wildlife watchers and enthusiasts alike to share their pictures and videos of wildlife across the world during the COVID crisis.”
If the name sounds familiar, Chris is designer Jenny Packham’s older brother. (The Telegraph did a profile in 2018 of the Packham siblings.)
This is not the Duchess’s first time taking part in the event. In October 2014 she attended the awards and handed out the Grand Title Award. 
On that occasion, she wore a Jenny Packham dress accessorized by her LK Bennett Agata suede sandals and an Alexander McQueen clutch.
Here is another look at Kate shooting the video.
Now for our look at what Kate wore in the new video. 
She is in a fitted jacket with satin lapels, sharply angled pockets at the hips, a chest welt pocket, and padded, peak shoulders. Many of these are signature design elements for Alexander McQueen, but we’ve not been able to locate this exact jacket for sale anywhere or in archive photos. Below, three current Alexander McQueen jackets with similar design elements: a Prince of Wales Jacket; a Grain de Poudre Wool Blazer; a Peak Shoulder Wool Jacket. 
I am not suggesting any of these is what Kate is wearing, merely pointing out similar elements. It is possible the Duchess is wearing a one-off piece.
UPDATE OCT 13: The Duchess wore the same ensemble for her video announcing the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Award. This link includes the entire broadcast; her appearance is at roughly 1:33 (1 hour, 33 minutes) into the broadcast.
Don’t forget to get your questions in throughout the evening – use #WPY56 and comment under the live stream here: https://t.co/9YDG5IbLSE
— Wildlife Photographer of the Year (@NHM_WPY) October 13, 2020
Congratulations to Sergey Gorshkov for his photo, The Embrace. 
The Museum did release one more photo from the taping of Kate’s portion of the program. 
I added a portion of the new photo to the montage from yesterday. I did notice in the new photo that it looks like the sleeves have a slight flare, widening at the cuff; they also have three satin buttons. 
You can see the Duchess has on a pair of slim-cut black trousers to match her jacket. A number of terrific suggestions have been offered as a possible ID on the piece via comments on the post, email, and direct messages. One several people have made is that it looks like the jacket Kate wore over a Whistles dress in June 2012 for the Diamond Jubilee Concert at Buckingham Palace. Unfortunately, I do not have better photos of that event than what is shown below. 
Other suggestions include the three pieces shown below. On the left, the Leaf Tailored Crepe Tuxedo Jacket; Kate’s pockets are more angled than these, and I don’t believe her lapels are that wide. In the center, a piece suggested by Kate, aka CopyKate on eBay. She doesn’t know the age of the piece but did point out it was available at one time on multi-brand luxury retailer My Theresa; of the three it seems the closest to what the Duchess wore. The piece on the right is from FarFetch and it was suggested by Renata before we saw today’s photo; it looks like it is longer than what the Duchess wore. 
For anyone seeking a repliKate, I added a few to the page.
The Duchess wears matching trousers and what could be the UFO belt noted last week with the Massimo Dutti ensemble.
UPDATE OCT 14: The ever-brilliant Liz from Kate’s Closet has shared what looks like a good ID on the belt. In this next montage, you see the Anderson’s Croc Effect Leather Belt ($160) in the upper photo; it was suggested to Liz by a reader. The lower two shots are today’s ensemble (seen bottom left) and the Massimo Dutti separates worn for a World Mental Health Day engagement (seen below right). 
Based in Italy, Anderson’s is a family-owned business manufacturing upscale men’s and women’s accessories.
The folks at UFO No More believe the Duchess is wearing a pair of Accessorize Earrings, the British brand’s Pearl Rope Drop Earrings. 
These look like they could be the pair Kate is wearing, although I’m not 100% convinced, if only because we don’t have hi-res photos. I could not find the earrings on the Accessorize US or Global site; here you see them at Nykaa, “India’s largest omnichannel beauty destination.”
If we see new photos tomorrow evening I will update this post. If the Duchess wears something entirely different I will do a separate post.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Also today, a Fashion Flashback. Two years ago today the Duke and Duchess attended Princess Eugenie’s wedding. 
They were not the only Cambridge family members in attendance; Princess Charlotte and Prince George were in the wedding party. 
Below, the bride in a Peter Pilotto wedding gown and the Greville Emerald Kokoshnik Tiara.
Kate was in a bespoke Alexander McQueen dress.
It bore great similarity to the Duchess’s 2017 Trooping the Colour dress.
For the 2018 wedding, Kate chose a Philip Treacy hat.
She also wore the Queen’s diamond drop earrings and carried what is believed to be a Parada clutch and Prada heels. 
Here is one more photo of Princess Charlotte. 
We’ll close with Happy Thanksgiving wishes to all of our friends in Canada who are celebrating the day!
LINKAGE:
- Visit the Natural History Museum site here; the Museum’s Facebook page is here; its Twitter feed is here, its Instagram page is here and its YouTube page here
- The Self-Isolating Birdclub Facebook page is here; its Twitter feed is here
LOVE this! I think this is the my favorite trouser outfit I’ve seen on her.
I’m not a fan of pantsuits but kate looks like a classy business woman.
Oh, her hair is luscious! Divine!
Emily Cronin from the UK Telegraph says that this suit is by Alexander McQueen.
In her article, she mentions Le Smoking by Yves Saint Laurent, created by him in 1966. This revolutionary design, so shocking at the time, is surely the inspiration, consciously or not, for any modern women wearing such an outfit.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/royals/duchess-cambridges-black-mcqueen-suit-ideal-choice-night-museum/
For what it’s worth, there are photos of Kate standing at the 2012 concert as the Queen arrives to be seated, and that blazer seems much longer (hitting her thigh), so they’re probably not the same.
Thank you, Sarah! You don’t happen to have a link to the photos, do you? 😊
It’s actually in your 2012 post: https://whatkatewore.com/2012/06/04/kate-in-whistles-and-mcqueen-for-jubilee-concert-prince-william-will-i-am-party-together/
(It’s the photo supplied by Grazia).
The more I stare at it though, the more I can’t decide if it hits lower.
Ah, got it, thank you Sarah. That is such a blurry photo I can’t tell about the length. It’s odd there were so few images from the event!
When I first saw this black tuxedo style pants suit with this modern padded shoulder I guessed the designer is Alexander McQueen (and I am right) because it is classy, edgy, up to date and modern and Kate looks fabulous in it 🖤. This modern outfit is perfect for this occasion and I would like to see more of this modern chic style/look on Kate. I read they are calling it The Power Suit. I also think she has more than one fashion/style advise now. This year Kate has been on Q with Hair/Fashion/ Style 💎and trying new style outfits.
Agreed!! Love the new looks she’s been sporting. Conservative, yet with a slight edge.
Kate’s Closet says the belt is by Anderson.
https://www.katescloset.com.au/andersons-black-croc-effect-leather-belt.html
Thank you, Marie! 🙂
I live AM’s peaked shoulders detail on blazers. She’s really found her designer. They work well together!
Thank you for the Thanksgiving wish!
People.com is also reporting that she’s wearing Alexander McQueen!
https://people.com/royals/kate-middleton-pants-suit-alexander-mcqueen-wedding-dress-designer/
Fabulous coverage, as always Susan. Thank you for a well-researched and well-written article.
I wonder if the pants from today are the same as those from her event at the university a few days ago…
I just thought that : this time with no bulky jumper tucked in they fall much better (just as they ought to) and the length looks similar. I still think it is a style that suits Catherine very well. They are still UFO I think?
You can’t tell the shoes but the thought of the suede block heels crossed my mine also. In the video we only ever see the top half of the Duchess (hence the slightly ‘eveningy’ jacket?) but the video was shot in daylight, no point in brining out formal evening shoes……..
I guess Susan was right about this being all we have for the award ceremony. Huge bummer though. I was hoping for a gorgeous evening gown…Still totally love her in this suit though😉
Hi Khloe, From observing Kate hair, outfit & makeup, this second tape recording was all done in the same day, and that would be yesterday when we first saw Kate’s fabulous chic Black Tuxedo style pants suit. Let’s hope we get to see more of this new style outfit for other events. 🖤
You can’t beat a black trouser suit and this outfit shows exactly why. Its a go to for those days when you just don’t know what to wear but want to look smart and in control and not spend too much time accessorising. I’m surprised in a way that Kate hasn’t worn something like this before and wonder if she feels she has to make more effort with colour and perhaps she feels dresses are more ‘princessey’. Whatever, she looks great. One of her best looks in my opinion.
I don’t think the belt is new. Perhaps it is this one previously worn?
https://whatkatewore.com/2019/03/12/new-old-pieces-for-childrens-centre-visit-the-return-of-a-jewelry-classic/
I was never clear if the belt worn for the occasion referenced above was the same as the one worn with the Persephone Hobbs coat twice and to the RAF base? Or do we think that she now owns three textured thin belts with gold buckles?
This belt nitpicking aside, this is a smashing look for DoC. Absolutely elegant enough to work for an awards show, but a step back from a formal gown – which would have looked a bit silly in this setting/format adapted for current events.
I have never seen her makeup more perfect for a “media” moment.
Oh hey Nykaa! The be-all and end-all of every beauty and accessory inclined Indian haha. ately, I don’t think it’s those earrings, but good RepliKate!
I love the chic pantsuit. The photos are a testament to what good lighting can do to blur out and beautify your face. It’s strange to me personally that we haven’t seen a different slim, black belt recently. Considering her penchant for multiple items of the same style, I am surprised to see the UFO belt get so many outings.
Am I totally on the wrong track here, but to me it looks very much like the belt she wore in the pictures taken at the Cambridge childrens first day of school, last year?
Also to my eye, it looks like Kate has optioned for a lighter eye shadow/eyeliner, which makes her look younger. Or is it just the loghts playing tricks. I have not seen such beautiful but subtle make-up on her before. She looks absolutely glowing! Bus as you said, nowadays so much can be done with lighting and filters, so you really can not trust any picture to reflect reality. This of course does not apply only to pictures of Kate and are surely not hers, but the photographers desicions/options.
I also love her new slightly lighter hair colour.
Yes I was mistaken. This was a separate UFO belt.
I did not mean to imply that the photos have a filter. Good lighting to beautify faces has been used since photographs were invented. It’s just that we rarely get to see the on camera (the angle for which the lighting has been established) and behind the scenes pictures at the same time.
I have a feeling there was a different makeup artist provided by the production crew today, but I may be wrong. You need someone who’s used to doing makeup for filming.
YES. Yes yes yes! So chic but commanding. Maybe that’s the American in me but I LOVE IT!
Oh wow! Never did I ever think we would see Kate wearing an all black pantsuit for any occasion ever. Yes she’s worn the odd black blazer here and there but never with slacks (jeans, yes) or a pantsuit ensemble. It’s impossible to deny the influence of Meghan’s style here (even the Daily Mail’s headline thinks this to be the case because the influence is undeniable and they included photos of Meghan’s outfit at the 2018 WellChild Awards).
I dunno why so many people here seem to be averse to black pantsuits! It is the like the little black dress, the little black outfit that will always be chic, fashion forward, and a staple for any professional workwear. To me it’s like taking a page out of a French woman’s wardrobe, they are famous for wearing all black outfits like this. It’s the most basic outfit you could wear to the office and I’m so surprised to see Kate wear this staple for the first time ever. She really does look like a museum curator here and her hair looks great. She’s also sticking to her favorite 1980s high-structured shoulder pad look which works. I’m really hoping she keeps this streak up and hopefully she’ll wear something similar for the virtual awards.
As for the fashion flashback, I didn’t like the bright pink outfit reminiscent of Pepto-Bismol at Eugeni’s wedding and I didn’t like the one at Trooping the Colour either. I don’t like the darts at the collar, the weird frilly design element at the waistline, or the tailoring at the shoulders. The only thing I liked about that outfit was the Philip Treacy hat.
You know Amelie, it confuses me and often annoys me, when publications write about someone’s fashion being influenced by others. Sometimes they say the person is channeling someone else. Yes, this jacket/suit are similar to an outfit worn by Meghan in 2018, but numerous other women have worn this style, before Meghan did. This is a classic which Kate decided to embrace; her own choice, not necessarily influenced by anyone. Just because the Daily Mail has an opinion, doesn’t make it right.
Frequently a tabloid claims that Kate or Meghan are channeling Diana. Often the only similarity is that both dresses are the same colour, whereas the fabric and style could be different. There are only so many colours, so many fabrics and so many styles, so repeats are inevitable. Every time Kate wears polka dots someone claims she is channeling Diana, or paying homage to her. I have several outfits with polka dots and never once thought of Diana when buying them.
As I said in a comment below, “Kate does Kate best.” Her style is conservative, befitting her role as a future Queen. Each time she choses something different, she is branching out, like many of us do. She doesn’t need Meghan nor Diana to inspire her.
Yes you are right, numerous women have worn black pantsuits before Kate and Meghan. However, Kate didn’t start wearing trousers on a regular basis until Meghan came into the picture. Correlation doesn’t imply causation, I know (or what I remember from my high school psych class!) and it could be just a coincidence. But in my opinion it isn’t. And I don’t see an issue with it if that’s the case. Meghan has been open about her fashion inspirations in the past from her actress days, for example CBK is one of her fashion inspirations and it’s very obvious when she wears an outfit that takes after CBK. Anyways, whether inspired by Meghan or not, I’m just glad to see Kate going beyond the regular coatdresses/long button up dresses she usually favors that I don’t think do anything for her. This is the kind of look I wished she’d wear more often, I almost didn’t recognize her here (in a good way!).
As for the Diana comparisons, those are nauseating, yet inevitable, as annoying as they are. I have never seen Kate or Meghan wear an outfit that was even remotely similar to Diana, despite the side-by-side comparison photos all over the Internet.
You had me Googling CBK, Amelie. I found Central Bank of Kenya, CBK radio station in Saskatchewan, Canada, CBK International Auto Parts, CBK Design at Wayfair. Could Calvin Klein have the middle initial of B?….no. Finally it dawned on me Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. I think my brain is turning into bubble gum.
Well there was that Oscar de la Renta vintage magenta dress with black accents that Kate wore last March in Ireland . That one could have been ripped right from Diana’s closet.
Totally agree with Bonnie. Meghan was not the first woman to wear a black pant suit and she certainly won’t be the last. Anyway if you look at the Daily Mail site the jackets are different and what they wore underneath is different.
Disagree with Amelie saying “It’s impossible to deny the influence of Meghan’s style here (even the Daily Mail’s headline thinks this to be the case because the influence is undeniable) I seriously doubt that Kate was trying to or needed to imitate Meghan and the Daily Mail is not an especially reliable source of journalism.
Maybe Kate who is quite careful, reserved and slightly conservative in her choice of clothes, has started to feel more confident with what to wear in official situations?
For example, black was “forbidden” in previous times unless in mourning.
I think rules have been eased in recent times and Kate like any woman tries out new styles, feeling a bit more brave and “grown up”.
Totally regardless of some other inconsequent people.
Remember a few years ago when Sophie was seen wearing a “jumpsuit” or wery vide trousers at some horsey summer event? That had never happened before, but I think the Queen maybe is less strict nowadays with the female members of the RF?
Nicely noted Bonnie. I feel the same way about comparisons.
I agree with you, Bonnie. It’s odd to hear the pantsuit being called a staple and then see the claim that Meghan must have influenced Kate’s choice.
Hear, hear Bonnie and Mary. Really annoys me when the tabloids ‘credit’ Meghan or (the late PoW) for anything Catherine might wear, as it is total nonsense. It is the height of sloppy journalism. Totally different people with totally different tastes and styles. To be ‘fair’ to the sloppy journalists they always try to tell us that Meghan has inspired Queen Letizia also – laughable.
Our tastes evolve as we grow up, gain confidence in ourselves and become a bit more adventurous in what we wear and I think that is what we are seeing with Catherine. Kudos to her and long may it continue.
Hi Sue, I feel the same way and if Kate wanted to be influenced or to credit anyone, it would be Queen Letizia that has been wearing pants suits in Black and many other colors way before she was a Queen, she was a Princess. They both shop with Zara, and a more expensive branch of Zara called Massimo Dutti. 👑
I agree with all of you. The headlines and comparisons are put out there to sell their publications and generate advertising dollars. There is nothing new they add to the event or being informative like our Susan. Designers of the day influence what all public figures wear (unless they are getting a full custom outfit which is rare or pulling something from her HM’s wardrobe:)).
“A museum curator”. You nailed it (as you intended it as a complement here)! Chic and professional with a touch of glam/drama. Pitch perfect for this event/appearance.
Why do you think Meghan was her influence? Highly unlikely. Kate is a woman im her 30’s, has been connected to the RF for almost 20 years. She grew up in those circles. Her mother and sister are extremely well dressed and have always been. Just like Kate. A basic, I do mean basic black pantsuit requires little imagination or influence. Fir that katter, Sophie was wearing pants and jackets before Meghan was even a whisper. And, I actually find this flat and boring. Solid black is usually for a memorial or funeral. Or, if it is for after hours, there is usually a lace or some other element. Point being, Meghan never influenced Kate on anything when she was still a “working” royal and she certainly isn’t now.
Hi Amelie,
I felt the same that Kate’s look has been inspired by Meghan Markle pantsuit! It was such a memorable fashion look of Meghan’s that I am sure a lot of people are going to make that assumption 🙂 I always wondered why Kate had never worn this tuxedo look before so I am happy she finally did it:) Hoping she will wear it with a cream blouse next time!
Meghan has great style, but to think that she could claim influence for a basic black pant suit is a bit of a stretch. Especially since Kate has always loved a good blazer. Perhaps a more Meghan-specific item would do the trick (i.e. I *think* Kate was wearing black pointed-toe Rothy’s when spotted out with Louis a month ago).
Ah, sheer perfection! Love everything about this look. The Philip Treacy hat that she wore to Eugene’s wedding is one of my all-time faves on her, as is the color of the entire outfit. Gorgeous!
Yes, that deep pink color (which is not the color of Pepto Bismol) is gorgeous. I could do without the shoulder poufiness, but otherwise it’s a terrific outfit.
One word – spectacular!
I’m not naïve enough to think that those beautifully tailored shoulders could ever be found in my price range, but this is sure one of those moments when you wish for a really good repliKate.
Kate looks splendid. Her hair and skin look amazing. Her tuxedo look is also reminiscent of Diana! But Kate is Kate and I love that she is trying new looks and experimenting. A good lesson for us in all aspects of our lives. Go Kate!
I could be wrong but one of the first ‘famous’ people to be phographed in a tuxedo was Catherine Deneuve (YSL back in the 60s?) way before Diana or Meghan were a twinkle in anyone’s eye, so let’s credit her as the one to start it all……..
J’adore ! Cette tenue est parfaite !
Kate est parfaite ! 🙂
J’aime la robe de mariée d’Eugénie et sa tiare.
Les couleurs des robes de Kate sont très jolies (framboise et rose bonbon)
mais les plis à la taille sont vraiment affreux 🙁
Can I just say that it’s so enjoyable to read your French, Lemon Tea; the practice is fantastique! Keep those comments coming!
I loved Kate’s light blue Jenny Packham with the beige ankle-strap heels, and it’s so nice to learn that Kate has a connection to Jenny’s brother, too! Wonderful post, Susan.
If you zoom in on the video you can tell her earrings are not the accessorize pair. Kate’s earrings are more of an oval shape on the gold part. They gold is thicker and solid. It isn’t a standard oval either but has more of a wave to it. So a wavy oval if that makes sense 🙂
https://www.reiss.com/fr/p/satin-trimmed-wool-blend-blazer-womens-wren-in-black/?category_id=1129&gaEeList=W%20-%20Suiting
Reiss seems to have a very similar option!
Her hair looks great. I don’t feel I can see the outfit well enough.
NOTE: admin edit
I think her earrings are from Banana Republic.
Wow, amazing fashion day. That jacket is PERFECTION, and the ice-blue Packham–that whole look–is an all-time top ten look for me.
Her hair looks incredible today.
Her air reminds me of the 2012 Pacific Island tour here. The makeup is minimal and glowy, which I love on her (usually when we see her on film, the makeup looks too heavy). Her hair is slightly undone/highlights her natural texture. You can tell she’s really spent a LOT of time outside with her kids during quarantine and it’s done her well. She looks more refreshed than I’ve seen her in a long, long time.
So many people dismiss her as frumpy, with her long pretty dresses.
Have you not realised that she really can dress for the occasion?
Our gal looks absolutely luminous!! Whoever has been in charge of her hair and skin lately deserves a giant bonus. Kate looks younger now than she did a few years ago.
I adore this chic suit. I normally hate any sort of shoulder pad on Kate, because I think they dwarf her slim frame, but for some reason I haven’t quite figured out yet, this really works. The cut is super flattering. Love that she’s experimenting with more modern cuts, like cropped trousers, these days!
Beyond fabulous hair makeup perfect suit This has to be my favorite look of the year !!!!!
Yes me too!!
She has broad shoulders and a thin frame. It’s really hard to pull off any kind of bold shoulder look and not have it overwhelm you. I think the secret here is just *how* the shoulder padding is executed; there’s a dart in to refocus the sleeves, not just make it look like an 80s power suit. I also think the sharp lapels and the belt make a V-shape that draws your eye down; it’s all built together very well.
Wow, thanks so much for sharing that with me! I wasn’t perceptive enough to notice exactly why it was working, so that’s so interesting to hear. You must work in fashion, I’m impressed! 🙂
Rebecca, her hair is high octane glamour and her skin indeed looks luminous!
We know she has the benefits of a glam squad – professional hair & makeup stylists, but in this particular video the lighting and filter settings of the camera are extra flattering. Many makeup artists on YouTube use heavy filters when filming which really enhances their appear making them look refreshed, luminous and glow-y. I think that adds to the ‘looking younger’ effect.
Funny and true story: when I started teaching on Zoom last March my teenage daughter set up my laptop for me to teach. I noticed that even though I looked stressed and tired in real life, I looked so refreshed and ‘air-brushed’ on camera. I innocently wondered aloud how that could be and she giggled and told me that she’d put a filter on the settings. Joke’s on me!
If you’re teaching/meeting/working on Zoom, get a teenager to help you with settings!
You’re very right, I’m sure she’s being helped by a flattering filter! Bless you for teaching Zoom classes, all teachers these days deserve a medal in my book.
I can’t help but think the last couple times we’ve seen Kate, her skin has looked very youthful, this occasion included. I wonder if she’s changed up her skin care routine or gotten some laser or chemical treatments done. She looks fab!
NOTE: admin edit
Get tip! I’m going to ask my daughter to set up a filter for me too!
Yes, thank you for the Zoom tip! I’m teaching on Zoom nearly every day at this point and didn’t know about the “touch-up” feature. I just changed my settings and it does make a subtle different. 🙂
I had a tuxedo custom-made a few years ago, and have never looked back. I feel like a queen in it every time I wear it – be it with a black t-shirt or a white silk blouse underneath. I think it’s amazingly feminine for a woman to wear a well-tailored tux.
Love it! And I totally agree
I have an evening tuxedo in the closet as well, although not a custom-made piece. It’s so versatile, it has worked in a number of instances where I was waffling about what to wear. 🙂
Kate looks absolutely in her element and it’s wonderful that her discovery of tailored pants continues apace, even to the extent of apparently wearing a satin-revere tux-style pant suit. So chic, so classic, such cool sophistication looks wonderful on her.
I like the McQueen-style touches, the peak shoulders are a nice rock-and-roll touch, giving freshness while the black-on-black keeps everything super-sober for the museum setting. Her hair and make-up look amazing, her complexion seems to be perfect and glowing. The earrings are an interesting style, with the pearl drop on a large hoop, very effective against the waves of hair. The squared-off neckline of her top finishes the framing of her face wonderfully.
Thanks for the re-visit to Eugenie’s beautiful wedding, fun to reprise some lovely outfits, including the children, and remember how well everything went. And happy thanksgiving all round!
I think it might be these earrings https://cocomangojewellery.com/products/olivia-irregular-pearl-hoop-earrings?_pos=1&_sid=0e457c364&_ss=r
Loving these fashion-flashbacks (especially as I was a huge fan of the color and cut of the dress and the fascinator). She looks crisp and timeless in this pantsuit. Her makeup, as always, is flawless. I would love for there to be a post on her makeup/beauty routine!
The Daily Mail is saying it’s McQueen, and they show a photo of a similar McQueen jacket. The DM doesn’t always get it right, however.
I enjoyed the trip down memory lane at Eugenie’s wedding. This is not an entirely fashion-oriented comment, but my favorite memory of that day has to do with the Countess of Wessex. You may recall it was an incredibly windy day, (some guests’ hats blew right off) and Kate’s dress nearly blew right up about the time they arrived at the church doors. As Kate was struggling to smooth the dress down, Sophie stepped right along side her to sort of assist her with her whole self to keep the dress down. A very subtle moment of kindness.
I think it maybe the Monica Vinader Alta stud and pearl earring. She’s worn MV to this event before in the pic in blue posted I think
The first time I saw her Tuxedo jacket, I immediately thought this must be McQueen. I am looking forward to the confirmation of her clothes.
I think the jacket is the Alexander McQueen Trompe L’Oeil Tuxedo Jacket $ 3,190 Product code: 621339QEAAA1000 listed on their website.
Thank you for the suggestion and the detailed item #, that’s very helpful! I wondered if Kate’s jacket featured shawl lapels like this jacket has, as opposed to more standard peaked lapels. I don’t believe it is what Kate wore; her lapels are more sharply angled and the pockets have a sharper angle as well. I wouldn’t be surprised if her jacket had some elements of this piece, though. 🙂
I don’t think this is necessarily true. She’s worn a number of black lace gowns for evening occasions. And that beautiful black velvet early on in the marriage with the ruby Demi parade.
The queen herself was pictured wearing a similar black evening dress with the CLK tiara in the past when younger. It’s said she prefers to wear bright colours to be seen by the crowds- not that she doesn’t like people to wear black
You can’t beat a black pantsuit! The satin lapels are perfect for the majestic museum setting. Kate looks stunning in black. I understand black is worn mostly by royals for solemn occasions (is that correct?) and, while Kate appears to respect that tradition, it is so nice to see her in black.
Yes, in the early to mid 1900- as in the last century, it was the custom for the ladies in the European royal families to wear black ONLY in a case of mourning of their close relatives or a death of a close other crown head (related), in Europe – about 3-6months, and then without any shiny/big jewellery. -Unless it coicinded with a big event, like a crowning or othervise.
Before that, in the 1800, black was worn quite normally with lots of jewellery (by older ladies), if you were a widower, or othervise, an older lady not wanting to show off yourself, as marrying again was not the custom. You were a widow for the rest ot of your life.
Even if you were as young as 45-65, which was considered as OLD in those times.
Princess Margaret, always the rebel, wore black evening wear occasionally and Princess Diana did the same (caused a bit of raised eyebrows at the time, but black was big fashion in 1980-1990).
.
Altough, the older royals never did take up the style, I think I’ve seen the Queen in black on one or other occasion (altough very rearly). Also, it might been the pictures, and her dress could have been a very deep dark blue, not sure.
Instead of black, the royal ladies opted for a very dark ink blue, very dark green if they wanted to wear a dark colured dress for one or other reason (for example the death of a very distant relative, and then only for a few weeks). Or other reasons, that I do not know about.
Now things/times have changed. Diana wore black, I think I have seen Queen Leitizia, Countess Sophia and Catherine in black. The royal customs/rules, change/ease with times as do we all. Nothing wrong wrong with that.
But you can really see the difference between a “little black number” and the solem total black worn by the most important royal ladies for example at the cenotaph, honouring the soldiers who gave their lives for the country. Usually their then wear black, just below then knee, with an austere style and the only jewels are a poppy on the right breast and pearl jewels, as pearls are universally seen as a substitute for tears.
NOTE: admin edit
Thanks for the very informative information! I have memories of my grandmother in dark navy from her 70s -90s. And pearl broaches. This was in the 1950s. So happy black (and navy) have been liberated!
I like Kate in all black for this event with just the satin lapels and earrings as accents.
Oops – I meant to say informative post ):
I LOVE this suit! I saw the Twitter video first and thought perhaps it was a dress…somehow the idea of a stylish suit jacket with these shoulders seems much nicer than a dress with the same detail. I also thought McQueen straight away, seeing that. I wonder if the trousers are the same as the ones from last week?
And what a nice memory of Princess Eugenie’s wedding, especially now that she and Jack are expecting a baby…I happened to get married the very next day so I’ve always thought she had excellent taste in wedding dates 😉
Happy Anniversary! 🙂
Oh thank you!
According to me, she is wearing the black McQueen blazer she wore during the Queen’s Diamond jubilee concert (https://whatkatewore.com/2012/06/04/kate-in-whistles-and-mcqueen-for-jubilee-concert-prince-william-will-i-am-party-together/).
If you have a closer look at some pictures from that event you’ll see the satin lapels and pronounced shoulders.
Great look!
Thank you for the input, Liesa. I haven’t been able to license any images from the event that show much beyond tight shots of William, Kate, and in some photos, Harry. It would be fun knowing if she did repeat the piece, I love the notion of bringing back an 8-year-old piece. 🙂
This is SO CHIC!
Kate looks smashingly glamorous and modern. Looks like Kate is venturing into more modern styles, and much as I am an old-fashioned girl at heart, that loose coat worn the other day and this sharp tuxedo look are a very welcome style upgrade. Not coincidentally, the loose coat and tuxedo suit are very much in Meghan’s wheelhouse.
Style inspiration!
Absolutely gorgeous.
I also think this is a very grown-up level of chic we are seeing, maybe Kate’s style is maturing. Certainly has carried off both the outfits you mention brilliantly.
Great comment! And you’re right, this does look like an outfit the Duchess of Sussex would wear. I feel like my ideal style is Kate’s in the earlier years of her marriage with a healthy dash of Meghan’s taste thrown in!
Kate does look modern and glamourous. But I do not see Meghan in Kate’s last two outfits; instead I see Queen Letizia of Spain, who epitomizes royal modern glamour to me. Letizia often wears Massimo Dutti, and Kate’s loose coat and cashmere sweater in her last outing are from the same company. As for today’s look, it looks like McQueen to me, and Kate has a long and successful relationship with McQueen. Also today is a national holiday in Spain and Letizia is wearing a fit and flair red coat that is very similar to several of Kate’s red and green Catherine Walker coats. I think Kate and Leti and style twins!
I certainly agree with you Susan and don’t think that Kate’s clothes have been influenced by Meghan. I also don’t think Kate reflects Letizia, making them style twins. Letizia has many very edgy outfits and takes far more fashion risks than Kate does. I’d say that Kate does Kate best.
This ‘new’ look of Catherine’s is stunning! When I saw the first photo on KP instagram I also thought it was a dress, the peaked sleeve element is very like last year’s diplomatic reception velvet number.
While I also would not call Letizia and Catherine ‘style twins’ I have for years wished that Catherine would incorporate some of Letizia’s elements into her own wardrobe – this style of trouser suit being a case in point, I think. Despite their height difference (I always think Letizia is tiny but maybe that is because her husband is so very tall!) I think they suit each other’s styles very well. Letizia has always been confident in her choices, Catherine less so, I believe, hence always playing it ‘safe’. I absolutely love the seeming new found confidence in her to break out in a stylish, snappy way.
Ten out of ten for the whole look, long may it continue, but am willing to bet there will be a few ‘back’ steps…..
Kate definitely does Kate best, on that we can agree.
The point of my comment was that I don’t think Kate’s style is influenced by Meghan. And I would bet that Kate is not interested in wearing anything that would make her look like she’s copying Meghan! Every woman I know has a black pantsuit or two in her wardrobe because it is a classic and utterly reliable.
As for Leti, I am not saying that she and Kate are identical twins! Just saying that they have similar styles, although, as you say, Leti is edgier. Definitely style sisters!
I adore Letizia’s style!! I agree about her personifying royal modern glamour.
Kate rarely goes wrong with McQueen…that impeccable tailoring is just unparalleled.
This black pant suit looks very chic and sophisticated and the shoulders and fitting are so McQueen. I do wish we could see the bottom of the pants so as to evaluate if they are skinny, flared, or cropped. I do hope that part was right…slim but not skinny and not cropped, would be my preference. Kate’s hair is thick and luscious and the pearl rope earrings are lovely.
In the “look backs” I never really cared for the 2014 dress with the high low skirt. Although I know many loved this dress, to me It looks indecisive, like Kate was not sure whether to go completely formal, or just sort of formal. I do note that the shoes were far more interesting that we usually see on Kate.
The raspberry and pink dresses are both so vivid in colour and my colour preference was the raspberry one. I liked the darts at the neckline, but wasn’t so keen on the waist detail. For many women this would make them look thick through the middle, although of course, that is never a problem for the Duchess. Both hats are wonderful matches for the dresses. I thought the deep burgundy, velvet shoes and clutch were a great compliment to the raspberry dress.
I immediately assumed this was McQueen, and she looks fantastic. I only wish we could see the shoes. I would certainly not be disappointed if she wore more suits like this one.
Oh my goodness! Usually I am not a fan of the pant suit, but the DOC really is stunning today!!! Can’t wait to see what she wears tomorrow, and who gets the award!
I love walking down memory lane to with the fashion flashback. It was a beautiful day. I wish Princess Eugenie and Jack every happiness, especially now with their coming baby.
Thank you for commenting, Khloe! I may be wrong but my guess is that this is what Kate wore to tape her portion of the event and we won’t see a change of clothes tomorrow. (Let’s cross our fingers I am wrong!) 🙂