One of the most talked-about pieces in Catherine’s fashion history is the Dead Ringer dress, a sheer knit creation she wore at a 2002 university fashion show, designed by Charlotte Todd as part of her The Art of Seduction collection. Originally intended as a skirt, Catherine wore it as a dress over a bandeau bikini, revealing her underwear beneath. This bold and provocative choice, described by royal fashion expert Miranda Holder as highly daring, is credited with catching Prince William’s attention. Reports suggest that he remarked, “Wow, Fergus, Catherine’s hot,” to a friend during the event. This moment is often seen as pivotal in their romance, and the dress’s legacy was cemented when it was sold at auction in 2011 for £65,000. It was later recreated for Season 6 of The Crown.
Before becoming a royal, Catherine’s fashion was more experimental, reflecting her life as an art history student. The Dead Ringer dress epitomized this phase, showcasing a youthful, daring aesthetic. Her style began to shift with her engagement announcement in November 2010, when she wore a navy blue Issa wrap dress, which perfectly complemented her sapphire engagement ring, once Princess Diana’s. This classic and simple choice set the stage for her future royal wardrobe, emphasizing elegance and tradition.
Her 2011 wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, marked a significant milestone. Made of ivory satin gazar with lace detailing, it featured a V-neckline, long sleeves, and an 8-foot train, with an estimated value of £250,000. This gown, blending modernity with regal heritage, became one of the most iconic wedding dresses, reflecting her personal style while honoring royal expectations.
In recent years, Catherine’s fashion has evolved to emphasize sustainability and diplomacy. A notable example is her red coat dress by Catherine Walker and Co, worn for the Commonwealth Day Service on March 10th, 2025, at Westminster Abbey. This dress had been worn previously in December 2021 and November 2023, exemplifying her practice of recycling outfits, a choice that aligns with her commitment to environmental sustainability. She paired the dress with a matching Gina Foster hat and heels, adding a bow for variety.
Catherine’s accessories often carry historical significance. For the same event, she wore Cullingwood drop pearl earrings, beloved by Princess Diana and featured in her 40th birthday portraits in 2021, as well as a full-strand Gerald pearl choker, a gift to Queen Elizabeth in the 1970s, which was worn at the Queen’s funeral on September 19th, 2022. These thoughtful choices not only enhance her outfits but also pay tribute to the royal legacy, bridging the past and present.
Catherine’s wardrobe frequently includes designs from British brands, showcasing her support for the fashion industry. She is loyal to designers like Alexander McQueen (known for her wedding dress and other formal gowns), Jenny Packham (seen in sparkly evening wear), and Amelia Wickstead (noted for elegant day dresses). Other favorites include LK Bennett, Zara, and Temple London, reflecting a mix of high-end and high street options. This preference highlights her role in boosting British fashion, as noted by Claudia Joseph, author of How to Dress Like a Princess: The Secrets of Catherine’s Wardrobe. Joseph emphasizes Catherine’s impact on small brands, helping them gain visibility and success.
Catherine’s fashion choices have consistently generated buzz, with outfits often selling out within hours. For instance, her 2011 wedding dress inspired countless replicas, while her engagement dress solidified her status as a style icon. Her recent focus on sustainability, such as rewearing the red coat dress, resonates with modern values, encouraging public awareness of environmental issues.
Additionally, her flag dressing tradition, like wearing red to honor Wales in February 2025, shows her diplomatic approach, continuing a practice seen in Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana. Catherine’s evolution from a daring student to a sustainable royal icon showcases her adaptability and influence.
Her ability to balance personal style with public duty makes her one of the most influential figures in modern fashion, bridging tradition with contemporary elegance.
