11 Kate Middleton looks inspired by Princess Diana: from her recent Alexander McQueen coat and polka-dotted Wimbledon outfit to her practically identical maternity styles

Nov 23 , 2021

Kate Middleton has taken style inspiration from her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, many times over the years. Photos: Getty Images, EPA-EFE, Reuters

The Duchess of Cambridge recently stood in for Queen Elizabeth at the UK’s Remembrance Sunday event, wearing the People’s Princess’ jewellery

Diana wore a red dress with a white collar after Prince Harry was born – and Middleton donned a similar one after Prince Louis’ birth

Princess Diana might have passed away almost 25 years ago, but her legacy lives on – and that’s doubly true for the British royal family, who have paid tribute to the People’s Princess in a variety of ways, from memorials to aspects of their day-to-day lives.

Kate Middleton has seemingly taken inspiration from Princess Diana’s style over the years. Here are some of our favourite looks.

Princess Diana in February 1986, and Kate Middleton in March 2005. Photos: Getty Images

Kate Middleton began dressing like Princess Diana early in her relationship with Prince William. While on a 2005 ski trip with William in Klosters, Switzerland, Middleton was photographed carrying her equipment in a red coat with a high collar and black gloves.

Middleton looked just like Princess Diana did when she visited the same resort with Prince Charles in February 1986. Diana also wore a red coat and black gloves at the time, though she accessorised with a tricoloured headband

Both women have worn strapless black gowns to formal events. On March 9, 1981, Princess Diana made her first public appearance with Prince Charles at London’s Goldsmiths’ Hall. She looked like royalty at the event in her strapless gown – which had a sweetheart neckline with short ruffles – and diamond jewellery.

The Duchess of Cambridge wore an almost identical dress on December 19, 2011, while attending the A Night of Heroes: The Sun Military Awards in London. Her dress was the same colour and had a similar neckline. Middleton also wore diamond jewels.

Princess Diana in June 1996, and Kate Middleton in September 2012. Photos: AFP, @samhussein1/Instagram

They’ve also worn similar outfits while on international trips. Middleton was photographed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on September 14, 2012, wearing a baby blue headscarf and a matching dress, which had sheer sleeves and a buttoned bodice.