Kate Middleton channels Princess Diana in recycled ‘My Fair Lady' polka dot look
Kate Middleton opted for a re-wear of her polka dot Alessandra Rich dress for this year's VE Day Service, and her My Fair Lady look gave a subtle sweet nod to the late Princess Diana
After stepping back from public events last year, Kate Middleton has been steadily returning to her public duties since the start of the year. Although her recent looks have been more understated and outdoorsy – such as her Claudia Winkleman -inspired countryside outfits during a visit to Scotland in April – Princess Kate has demonstrated she still knows how to put together a classic, elegant outfit for formal occasions with her most recent look.
The Princess of Wales opted for a re-wear of one of her favourite Alessandra Rich dresses as she attended the Thanksgiving Service to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day at Westminster Abbey. The white midi dress with polka dot print is a classic example of Kate's ability to nail a current trend (in this case polka dot prints) whilst still re-wearing her wardrobe and looking timeless and elegant.
Princess Kate most recently wore the Alessandra Rich dress during The Order of The Garter service at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on June 19 2023, with fans pointing out the similarity between her outfit and Audrey Hepburn's look in My Fair Lady. The midi dress features long sleeves and a high neckline, with subtle pleating details around the waist and neck for a flattering and modest look.
The Princess of Wales' look is also very reminiscent of one of Princess Diana 's best-loved looks, which was her polka dot white midi dress that she wore to Royal Ascot in 1988. Just like Kate's Alessandra Rich dress, Diana's had subtle pleating across the waist for a form fitting silhouette, with long sleeves and a midi hemline.
This isn't the first time Princess Kate has made a subtle gesture of remembrance to Princess Diana's outfits, with Kate also opting for a white and brown polka dot dress during the 2022 Royal Ascot, which was a clear nod to her late mother-in-law's iconic look.
Whilst we're coveting Kate's exact dress, the hefty price tag is well beyond most of our budgets, not to mention unavailable to buy anywhere. Whilst you can pick up a similar sleeveless Alessandra Rich midi dress on FarFetch for £1070, we managed to find some more affordable options that let you copy Princess Kate's look for less.
Shop Kate's polka dot look for less
The Kooples Collar Polka-dot Woven Maxi Dress – £415
Hobbs Larina Dress – £169
Sister Jane Birds Of A Feather Dove Hearts Maxi Dress – £120
LK Bennett Polly Tie-Neck Polka-Dot Woven Midi Dress – £299
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