When it comes to fashion, Kate Middleton is known for two things: taking trends and making them her own, and dressing with a theme in mind.
The Duchess of Cambridge has come up through the Royal Family knowing how to use fashion to her advantage, and has created almost as much interest with her style choices than her mother-in-law, the late Princess Diana.
Kate shares Diana's love of a nod and wink in her clothes, as she proved again in her latest appearance at the reception in honour of those who took part in the Hold Still exhibition, a portrait photography campaign that saw hundreds of submissions from people around the UK as the country went into lockdown last year.
With the theme of the portrait collection in mind, Kate chose a stunning structured dress by renowned UK brand Self-Portrait, showing her flair for trends as well as her savviness when it comes to messaging.
Posting to the couple's Instagram account, Kate wrote: "Thank you to the brilliant partners who made Hold Still a reality! It took a long time to bring everyone behind this incredible project together in person but tonight we finally managed it. The idea for #HoldStill2020 came right at the start of the pandemic, and aimed to bring people and communities together, using the amazing power of photography."
Kate stepped out in the Cream Tailored Boucle and Chiffon Midi Dress, a striking design featuring an illusion blazer top that wraps closed and is fastened with a belt, as well as a chiffon and lace skirt that flows from the blazer.
Showcasing a mix of textures, the dress features boucle fabric, covered buttons, sharp lapels and a semi-sheer lace hem on the skirt.
Middleton styled the look with her hair worn up in a tousled and voluminous ponytail, and added some sparkle with intricate drop earrings and a simple gold necklace. Her makeup was kept fresh and neutral as always, with a nude lip and a subtly defined smokey eye.
