With its epaulettes detailing; regal navy, red and white colourway; and smart fit, Kate Middleton's classic winter coat was an elegant and fitting choice for commemorating Remembrance Day today in the centre of London. As is tradition, the royal family attended the Remembrance Day service at The Cenotaph, and despite the queen being noticeably absent due to a sprained back, the Duchess of Cambridge held a central position in the balcony alongside Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, and Sophie, Duchess of Wessex. All had oversized poppies pinned to their winter coats, and the trio also chose subtle drop earrings. However, it was Camilla and Catherine who opted in for oversized black hats. Camilla's was adorned with ostrich feathers, while Catherine's was a little more pared-back with a simple grosgrain ribbon.
If you recognise this coat, then you're right on the mark. Catherine chose this military-inspired coat from Alexander McQueen for Remembrance Day in 2018. This is a bespoke piece, reminiscent of some existing designs from the British fashion house, but distinctly separate in its length and overall austerity—some original iterations are cropped jackets and feature lace trims on the hem, for example.
With pearl earrings and a low chignon, the duchess looked as refined as she always does. Keep scrolling to see more photographs of this favoured Alexander McQueen coat in 2021 and 2018.
Last night, the Duchess of Cambridge also attended the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at Royal Albert Hall, an event that is also a normal part of royal duties for the Armistice weekend. For this evening occasion, Kate opted for a similarly understated look: a black tweed midi dress from Eponine London, an independent contemporary label. She chose the same pearl earrings as can be seen in today's ensemble—a pair from Princess Diana—as well as a bracelet also borrowed from Diana's archive. This look was also a recycled one, with the Duchess choosing a dress she wore to the theatre back in 2020. All of the items highlighted in both looks speak to her ongoing commitment to restyling and rewearing—a tactic that can be employed no matter the heritage of your pieces.
Next up, the jeans Kate Middleton wears from the high street.
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