Kate Middleton certainly dabbled in florals from time to time, but the royal's true print allegiance lies with polka dots. They’re classic - conveying the polish expected of any royal outfit - and when printed on the right silhouette, they create a look that’s more fashion-forward than you might expect. Cutting a striking silhouette as she attended a service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) earlier today, the Duchess looked chic as ever wearing a bespoke Alessandra Rich polka dot dress.
The dotty number in question was last seen on the Duchess in 2023 and features an elegant high-neck design with a ruched waistline. She teamed the long-sleeved dress with subtle accessories including a black Juliette Botterill fascinator and a pair of diamond and pearl drop earrings that belonged to Princess Diana - a testament to Middleton's impeccable jewellery collection. Expertly demonstrating her prowess for elegant styling, the Duchess chose to break up the monochrome look with tan leather pumps and a matching tan bag from British brand DeMellier. The Nano Montreal bag in question has in fact been spotted on Middleton before and continues to be a mainstay in her polished wardrobe.
Shop: Kate Middleton's Polka Dot Dress Outfit
www.hobbs.com
While Middleton's Alessandra Rich dress is unavailable to buy off the rack, you can get the royal's elegant style for much less with the Larina Dress from Hobbs. Featuring a pleated, flared skirt and a collared neck, it's perfect for any formal occasion you have coming up this spring.
www.laredoute.co.uk
If you're looking for a slightly more budget-friendly alternative, La Redoute's now on sale ruffled polka dot dress is a brilliant alternative to Middleton's designer dress.
www.meandem.com
For a more accurate replica of the Duchess' look, consider one of her favourite high street labels ME+EM. This silk maxi features the exact high neck and ruched waistline and come with a detachable floral corsage that can be added to the neckline.
www.charleskeith.co.uk
While ideal pairing for a polka dot dress, these nude pumps are also just a great addition to your footwear roster and will look great with most formalwear.
demellierlondon.com
The perfect Kate Middleton-approve mini bag to invest in, this tan style comes with a removable crossbody strap for hands-free carry.
Other recent polka dot moments from KMid? A spotted burgundy dress from Whistles which is surprisingly still in stock and on sale. Another high-neck, long-sleeved design, she paired the midi dress with a double-breasted chocolate brown Alexander McQueen coat, suede high heels and a pair of delicate gold earrings for the ideal autumnal look.
Shop: Kate Middleton's Whistles Polka Dot Dress
On sale
A burgundy dress is always a good idea and this one comes with the royal seal of approval.
The Duchess has also previously been partial to her favourite navy Alessandra Rich polka dot midi dress at Wimbledon before which has the perfect vintage appeal. When it comes to accessories, Kate sticks to classic accompaniments to a polka dot dress such as drop pearl earrings and court heels. The upside to not being a member of the royal family? You can wear yours with trainers, a denim jacket and whatever else you fancy.
Shop: Alternatives To Kate Middleton's Navy Polka Dot Dress
www.nobodyschild.com
Dainty and delicate, this flutter sleeve midi is perfect for styling with drop earrings and strappy black heels for your next spring wedding.
rixolondon.com
If you're after an investment buy, Rixo is a great place to browse and the Emory silk maxi features a structured waist and deep V-neck, making it universally flattering.
Main image credits: ©Getty Images/Chris Jackson
Hitanshi Kamdar is a senior commerce writer for Grazia. Hitanshi is always on the hunt for the latest trends, emerging designers and the internet’s most bizarre style discourse. When not writing, she can be found IDing outfits during Netflix binges and shopping for the latest It-girl shoe trends.