Princess Kate shares ‘striking similarities’ to Audrey Hepburn with outfit detail

Kate subtly conveys a message of “classic elegance, sophistication, and a nod to the history of British fashion” states fashion expert.

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Kate conveyed a message of “classic elegance” at Royal Ascot claims fashion expert (Image: Getty)

During Princess Kate’s first official royal appearance in 2024 at Trooping the Colour, the Princess of Wales conveyed “striking similarities” to actress Audrey Hepburn’s iconic look in “My Fair Lady”.

The future Queen looked stunning as she donned a recycled Jenny Packham dress that she has worn on various occasions in 2023, which she paired with a colour-matching OC 155 hat by Philip Treacy, Mulberry’s East West Bayswater Clutch (£650) and Jimmy Choo’s Romy 85 leather pumps in white (£650).

Fashion designer, Amanda Wakeley OBE, said Princess Kate’s outfit and appearance conveyed a message of “classic elegance, sophistication, and a nod to the history of British fashion”.

Amanda said: “Kate’s ensemble exuded timeless elegance, a hallmark of Hepburn’s character, Eliza Doolittle, in the Ascot scene where she wore that unforgettable black-and-white outfit. The strikingly similar monochrome bow at the neck was possibly inspired by this, it was balanced by the striped waist detail added to her previously worn Jenny Packham dress – how clever of Kate to illustrate so beautifully how a garment can be totally transformed by the addition of new trims.”

The fashion expert added: “The overall elegance, sophisticated tailoring, and the use of classic elements like the wide-brimmed hat, monochrome colours, structured lines, and refined accessories all contribute to this classic aesthetic that Kate embodied beautifully.”

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Audrey Hepburn in ‘my fair lady’ looked strikingly similar to Kate’s Trooping the Colour outfit (Image: Getty )

Kate, who is Colonel of the Irish Guards, completed the look with a pair of pearl stud earrings by Cassandra Goad (£5,620), while she also donned the Regimental Irish Guards Brooch.

Fashion expert, Amanda explained the symbolism created with the look: “It reinforces her role as a style icon who blends contemporary fashion with historical reverence, showcasing her ability to honour the past while still looking forward as well as sending the message of how effective and rewarding upcycling can be!”

In summary of Kate as a global fashion icon, she explained: “In three words I would say… impeccable, timeless, and elegant. Kate has a unique ability to blend tradition with modernity, and this outfit was a prime example.

“The tailored dress, combined with the super chic Phillip Treacy hat, created a look that was both regal and aspirational whilst remaining accessible. Kate continues to set a high standard for royal fashion, seamlessly integrating contemporary design with classic elegance, making her a true fashion icon.”

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Princess Kate made her first official royal appearance of the year (Image: Getty)

The royal, who revealed that she was undergoing cancer treatment back in March, made a return to public life on Saturday when she attended this year’s Trooping the Colour.

It marks her first public appearance this year, as she last stepped out on Christmas Day. She had to take a step back from public duties following major abdominal surgery in January and her subsequent cancer diagnosis.

Kate, who bravely revealed her cancer diagnosis in March, explains the treatment can leave her feeling “weak and tired” on occasions. But when she is well enough she can focus on the things that give her joy and reveals she has started “to do a little work from home”.

While she will not be returning to duties full-time, Kate does now feel well enough to undertake a small number of public engagements this summer. Also, with the royal’s cancer treatment ongoing, it remains unclear when she will step out for another royal appearance.