All Eyes Were on Kate Middleton's Designer Coat at the Royal Wedding
It was designed by Alexander McQueen (one of Kate's favorite fashion labels).


Update 5/19: For Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's wedding, Kate Middleton wore a primrose wool silk coat by Alexander McQueen. She matched her Philip Treacy fascinator to the pale yellow ensemble and walked up the church steps in Jimmy Choo heels. Kate's wedding guest look was noticeably different than the pink bridesmaid dress she wore to sister Pippa Middleton's wedding, which included a much smaller hat, but it was still breathtakingly sophisticated.
Original post 4/5:
Believe it or not, there was once a pre-Meghan Markle era when only the Duchess of Cambridge's "untraditional" royal fashion choices were in the spotlight. Since she married Prince William in 2011, Middleton has taken a more conservative approach with her style—a stark comparison to that of her future sister-in-law Meghan Markle. Harry and Meghan's wedding on May 19 is quickly approaching, and we have a few ideas about what Middleton may choose to wear to the affair.
The Dress Style: Knee-Length
Middleton's pregnancy has been strongly influencing her fashion choices the last nine months. Since she's expected to give birth to her third child before the wedding, we're narrowing in on Middleton's pre-pregnancy wardrobe in which knee-length dresses dominated the royal's outfits. As you'll notice, the Duchess often chooses the same long-sleeve, a-line style in a mix of casual and formal varieties.
There's a slight chance the royal opts for a pantsuit instead of a dress, but considering she's worn a dress to almost every other wedding she's attended (like Pippa Middleton's wedding and the wedding of a friend of Prince William), we're betting on a knee-length one-piece.
The Shoe: A Low Pump
Even royals need their fair share of foot comfort—especially if Kate will be busy all day with wedding festivities. (No, she won't be Meghan's maid of honor.) Harry and Meghan are set to have at least two different receptions, so there will be a lot of standing (and dancing...to Spice Girls...hopefully). We think the neutral two- or three-inch heels Kate tends to favor, like these L.K. Bennet fern pumps, below should work perfectly.
The Accessory: A Fascinator
The royals sure do love their fascinators—especially at major events like royal weddings, the Queen's annual birthday parade (known as Trouping the Colour), and holidays like Christmas and Easter. It's a tradition that has transformed itself into a major staple—similar to big hats at the Kentucky Derby. Kate wears them often (particularly at weddings), which is why we'll likely see her in one again come May. Her fascinators typically match her dress, though she isn't afraid to make a bold statement.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
The Handbag: A Clutch
This one is a no-brainer. Kate Middleton hasn't been spotted with any bag but a clutch since, basically, ever. She typically goes for a narrow envelope clutch like this one in the same color scheme as her outfit (but rarely matching the exact tone). If she doesn't choose a clutch, she'll probably go hands-free.
Until May 19...
WEDDING WATCH
Rachel Epstein is a writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. Most recently, she was the Managing Editor at Coveteur, where she oversaw the site’s day-to-day editorial operations. Previously, she was an editor at Marie Claire, where she wrote and edited culture, politics, and lifestyle stories ranging from op-eds to profiles to ambitious packages. She also launched and managed the site’s virtual book club, #ReadWithMC. Offline, she’s likely watching a Heat game or finding a new coffee shop.
-
Princess Beatrice's Husband Pays a Rare Tribute to These Royal Family Members on Instagram
Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi shared some behind-the-scenes snaps from the F1 Grand Prix in Bahrain.
By Kristin Contino
-
Allow Kathy Bates to Convince You to Grow Out Your Grays
One look at her new style and you'll be canceling your root touch-up pronto.
By Ariel Baker
-
After the 'Yellowjackets' Finale Answered Many of Our Burning Questions, Will It Return for Season 4?
The showrunners still have plans to show how the girls get out of the wilderness.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
This Royal Couple Has the Most Pinned Celebrity Wedding of All Time—And a Surprising Royal Wedding Didn't Even Make The List
A new study found this ceremony gave Pinterest users the most inspiration.
By Kristin Contino
-
Royal Sources Give Update on "Distant" Relationship With Prince Harry and King Charles
Insiders close to the Duke of Sussex have revealed whether there is a chance at reconciliation in the near future.
By Kristin Contino
-
The Alleged "Olive Branch" Prince Harry Offered to Kate Middleton and Prince William During U.K. Visit
The Duke of Sussex's decision was reportedly an effort "to make peace."
By Amy Mackelden
-
We Taste-Tested Meghan Markle’s As Ever Jam, Honey and Flower Sprinkles—One Word Kept Coming Up
Women across America gave 'Marie Claire' their thoughts on the Duchess of Sussex's first seasonal drop of products.
By Kristin Contino
-
The Special Gift Princess Lilibet Received From "Papa" Prince Harry in Meghan Markle's Latest Instagram Post
"Made with love."
By Amy Mackelden
-
Royal Expert Shares Why King Charles Had to Be "Very Careful" and "Couldn't" Meet Prince Harry During U.K. Visit
"It could actually bring down a court case."
By Amy Mackelden
-
Prince Harry’s Lawyer Claims His "Life Is at Stake" When It Comes to Court Ruling
The Duke of Sussex is waiting on a decision that will impact his family's future plans.
By Kristin Contino
-
Meghan Markle Shares Her Thoughts on Trump's Tariffs as She Launches As Ever
The Duchess of Sussex opened up about how her new business could be impacted in a new interview with 'Fortune.'
By Kristin Contino