Welcome to My Royal Closet! Each month, take a look into a different closet that has been royally-inspired by Kate. The Duchess of Cambridge has been a huge influence on our closets, and we want to share our favorite repliKates and outfits with you!
This month, we’re sharing a special Royal Closet – a non-pregnant Royal Closet! Why is it special? Because Ashley has a collection of maternity pieces seen on Kate – but she isn’t expecting! Ashley shows us how versatile and wearable these pieces are – bump or not!
Meet Ashley: I remember the first time I ever saw a photo of Kate Middleton. She was attending an event with Prince William and they identified her as his girlfriend. Her natural beauty and cool demeanor was amazing. At first glance, you could easily tell they had an intense connection and it was great.
For years, America was obsessed with Princess Diana. We all kept a close eye on her two sons and it was great to see Prince William happy. The knowledge of Kate verified that her boys were going to be okay. In 2004, Kate modeled for the Really Wild Clothing Company and I loved her outfit. I loved her boots and the “look” was addicting. She was beautiful and healthy, not super skinny and typical. For me, she became a great role model for I was still a young girl and her demeanor appealed to me. Since 2004, her style has continued to develop into a sophisticated, timeless eruption of the unexpected.
On the day she announced her engagement, her shiny blue Issa Dress was the perfect choice and the Internet exploded. Her hairstyle, her complexion, her smile and her engagement ring made everyone feel a part of their happiness. Her style was just fantastic. Next, was the anticipation of who she would choose to make her wedding dress and when the day came and she got out of the car to go into the church, that dress just stopped the world for a few seconds. Her wedding gown was absolutely astonishing and she looked breathtaking. Again, her demeanor and elegance amazed billions of people watching. Sarah Burton, for Alexander McQueen created the most magnificent wedding gown of our time. It was just perfection. As if that wasn’t enough for all humankind, the tour of Canada and a trip to California was next.
Her choices in Canada raised another bar in the fashion world. Designers we had never seen before were represented and we loved Kate’s choices, once again. In California, her choice of a McQueen gown with jeweled belt and Jimmy Choo heels defied gravity. She looked amazing. Every Hollywood star paled in comparison and that’s not an easy thing to achieve. Her attendance at every event is always exciting because we never know what she will wear next and she rarely disappoints.
Even during her pregnancies she redefines style. I love to wear her choices or just observe her choices. It inspires me to dress well and live a healthy life, the way Kate does. Kate’s mom, Carole and her sister Pippa are also fun to watch. They all seem to be just genuinely kindhearted people. I admire Kate for her beauty but her greatest quality is her ability to help people. I admire Kate and William for their efforts with charitable causes. Their celebrity is doing a lot of good for many people and I think that is the most important aspect of her role. I hope she remains so grounded and sincere. In America, her true character will be more important than her fashion but her fashion truly is fascinating.
You can chat with Ashley on Twitter at @LiveLaughLoveVR or on our collaborative account, @HRHBabyWatch!
ASOS Spotty Skater Wrap Dress
When Kate wore this, I knew I had to have it. This dress is easy to wear, soft and comfortable. I love the design and fabric as it can be easily worn from day to night.
Jojo Maman Bebe Princess Coat
This coat is a very chic design and it’s versatile. I love the fabric, color and cut. I wear it with skinny jeans, ballet flats, knee or ankle boots and of course with summer dresses.
Seraphine Marina Coat
I absolutely adore this coat! When Kate wore it in NYC, I thought it was the perfect choice. I’ve gotten numerous compliments from people asking where it’s from and if it’s by Chanel. The coat can be dressed up or down, I love to wear it with skinny jeans and dresses. This coat has to be my favorite item from my Royal Closet.
Seraphine Vanessa Dress
This dress is very flattering and easy to wear as are all of my Seraphine pieces. It’s true to size but also fitted around the bust and upper torso. I’ve worn this dress with black suede pumps or my black suede knee boots.
Seraphine Knot-Front Dresses
I adore these dresses! The knot front detail sits below the bust and there’s a tie in the back for added cinching. I took a size down in these dresses as the fabric is very giving and stretchy.
Seraphine Blue & White Print Dress
Kate hasn’t worn this dress but I absolutely love it, the fabric is soft and the cut is extremely flattering. I like to wear it with opaque black tights or with bare legs and SW navy suede wedges. Editor’s Note: Coco Rocha and Carrie Underwood have worn this dress, and it is a lovely winter alternative to the Florrie dress!
Wow! What a great blog post this is! I really enjoyed reading the story about Kate and seeing all the photos of these coats and dresses. It’s really helpful as I really want a Seraphine dress and never knew they could be worn if you’re not pregnant. Fabulous idea!
Let us know if you invest in a Seraphine! Would love to see it! x
I love this! I have thought about buying some of Kate’s maternity dresses because they are actually available when I shop for them. They don’t sell out because most women don’t bother buying if they aren’t pregnant. Way to snag some great pieces, Ashley!
The Royal Closet articles are such a favorite of mine. I’d like to see one a week! It’s always so amazing how us non-royals can adapt and learn from Kate about elegant, simple dressing. Thanks for sharing and I look forward to more in the future!
Thanks so much for doing this feature– this is perfect! I’ve been contemplating a Seraphine dress, but wasn’t entirely convinced that they would work well for non-pregnant me, despite their claims. As DH and I wrestle with the question of whether to try for children in the next couple of years or not, I like the idea of beginning to build a wardrobe that will work either way!
Kelly, you will not regret it! Seraphine dresses are an absolute dream. Maternity clothes are *so* comfortable. I own Kate’s navy ASOS maternity dress and it is my go-to for summertime. I throw it on with some wedges and run out the door. The Seraphine dresses are exactly the same! They’re made for comfort!!