Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, is known for her impeccable sense of style and often draws inspiration from her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. However, there is one fashion rule that Diana frequently broke but Kate still adheres to for the most part – the rule of wearing black only for mourning or funerals.
Fashion designer Dame Zandra Rhodes revealed that Diana loved little black dresses, but royals were not supposed to wear black unless they were in mourning or attending a funeral. Despite this rule, Diana would often choose black pieces from Rhodes‘ shop in Mayfair, prompting the designer to create the same design in a different color for her. Diana’s rebellious nature was evident in her fashion choices, as she often pushed the boundaries of royal protocol.
In contrast, Kate Middleton tends to stick to the traditional rule of wearing black only for somber occasions. She has been seen wearing black at the funerals of Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth, as well as during the mourning period for the latter. Kate also wears black for annual Remembrance Day events, but outside of these occasions, she rarely chooses the color. Instead, she gravitates towards bright colors and chic neutrals, following in the footsteps of the late Queen Elizabeth’s fashion rule of standing out in a crowd.
Despite not fully embracing Diana’s love for black attire, Kate still pays tribute to her mother-in-law through her fashion choices. Fashion Director Bethan Holt noted that when Kate references Diana, she brings the style up to date and makes it her own without looking like she is playing dress-up. Kate’s intentional nods to Diana show her respect for the late Princess while maintaining her own modern and sophisticated style.
Diana’s defiance of the royal rule against wearing black was evident early on in her royal life when she wore a black gown to a fundraising concert with Prince Charles in 1981. Throughout her time as a royal, Diana continued to wear black on various occasions, including the iconic „revenge dress“ she wore in 1994. This black off-the-shoulder dress made a bold statement on the same night Charles admitted to infidelity in their marriage, showcasing Diana’s strength and independence.
In contrast, Kate’s wardrobe choices are carefully curated, with each outfit thoughtfully selected for public appearances. At a recent event at Wimbledon, Kate opted for a purple Safiyaa dress, symbolizing courage and radiance. Her fashion choices not only reflect her personal style but also serve as a source of inspiration and hope for many.
In conclusion, while Kate Middleton may not fully embrace Diana’s penchant for wearing black, she pays tribute to her mother-in-law in a respectful and modern way. Kate’s adherence to royal fashion rules, combined with her own unique style, showcases her grace and elegance as a member of the royal family.