Kate Middleton, 38, first started to make official appearances after marrying Prince William, also 38. She is a senior member of the Royal Family and will often attract attention when stepping out. A style expert explained how her choices have helped her evolve her role.
Kate has used her style to evolve her status, according to editor of British Style Society Natasha Henson.
The expert suggested her look has continued to change as Kate has taken on more duties.
She explained: “Starting her fashion journey as a university student, Kate’s status has evolved as a fresh new fashion icon.
“Personally, I wouldn’t say Kate’s style has changed dramatically over the years.
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“However, it has become more refined with the type of duties she now has to perform as a royal.”
While members of the Royal Family will usually follow strict style rules, Kate is happy to choose comfort over restrictive looks.
“Kate often opts for comfortable yet stylish casual attire to fit her role as a young royal and a hands-on mother,” Natasha added.
“These elements may indicate that although she is a prominent public figure, she still likes to feel relaxed yet fashionable whether she’s attending an event or enjoying a family day out.”
“She also isn’t afraid to re-wear statement pieces with an Alexander McQueen favourite making reappearances.
“When sporting the latest collections such as the infamous royal blue Issa dress, her public appearances have sparked buying frenzies with pieces selling out within hours.
“The best thing about Kate’s looks is that they are often accessible to all, whether you shop designer or high street, the Duchess shows us how easy refined style can be achieved whatever your budget.”
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How did Kate Middleton become a royal?
Early life
Kate Middleton, or Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, was born on 9 January 1982 at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading, England.
She was born to Michael and Carole Middleton, a former flight dispatcher and air hostess. The couple founded a party supplies company, Party Pieces, in 1987 – now estimated to be worth £30 million.
Kate has a younger sister Pippa Matthews and a younger brother James Middleton.
Education
Kate and her family moved to Amman, Jordan, in 1984, where the future Duchess was educated at an English-speaking nursery school.
After moving back to Berkshire the family sent Kate to private school, St Andrews School. She went on to briefly study at Downe House before moving onto Marlborough College where she boarded.
For university the young Kate attended the University of St Andrews in Fife, Scotland. Here she was awarded an undergraduate MA (2:1 Hons) in history of art.
Relationship with Prince William
Kate met Prince William when they were both studying at St Andrews, and both living in St Salvator’s Hall. Famously, William reportedly took a fancy to Kate after she wore a see-through dress during a fashion show.
In 2003 the couple began dating and lived together during their second year of university.
The couple split in April 2007, however, in October they were back together.
Wedding
Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with his late mother Princess Diana’s engagement ring in October 2010. The couple were holidaying in Kenya at the time.
On 29 April 2011 they married at Westminster Abbey with a whopping 26 million watching the event live.
Kate wore an Alexander McQueen dress worth a reported £250,000 on the big day.
Kate assumed the title “Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge” and also became the Duchess of Cambridge on the day.