The Duchess of Cambridge Revisits Some Classic McQueen

The Duchess of Cambridge has embraced royal style in her own individual way, bringing contemporary flair with statement accessories, while always remaining classic. Her current obsession? Headbands. 

To attend an Anzac Day service at Westminster Abbey, Kate commanded attention in a headpiece by celebrated milliner Jane Taylor that was a hybrid of a headband and a hat. The bouclé piece, secured at the back with a black bow, perfectly complemented her cream Alexander McQueen coat dress—the sold-out one she wore to daughter Princess Charlotte’s christening in 2015. 

The always considered Kate frequently re-wears pieces already hanging in her wardrobe for formal occasions and public appearances, and is careful to mix in high street labels with her designer pieces. She’s also recently developed a taste for vintage, suggesting she’s keen to explore a more conscious approach to getting dressed, despite having her pick of the world’s most celebrated brands. 

The other accessory of note at Westminster Abbey on Monday? Those pearl earrings, which previously belonged to Prince William’s late mother, Princess Diana. Kate has worn the heirloom earrings on several occasions in the past, including to attend the BAFTAs, and to the christening of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s son, Archie Harrison. 

For an Easter church service in Windsor earlier this month, the Duchess wore another headpiece by Taylor—a blue headband that was already part of her collection—that time styled with a duck egg Emilia Wickstead coat dress. 

Kate has worn Taylor’s headbands on several significant occasions, from Prince Louis’s christening in July 2018 to state visits, including her trip to Ireland earlier this year, where she was photographed in a velvet style. 

Kate’s wedding to the Duke of Cambridge in 2011 was a sea of fascinators and headpieces. Victoria Beckham wore a navy oval style; the Queen wore a lemon-yellow hat; and Princess Beatrice, memorably wore an avant-garde fascinator with a dramatic bow detail by Philip Treacy. 

Alexander McQueen double-breasted coat

Gianvito Rossi 105 suede pumps