We have covered ways to get Kate’s wardrobe for less for years on the blog through many different angles. But the reality remains that for some, key pieces in Kate’s wardrobe may just be out of their reality. The beautiful designs of her favourite brands may be priced in such a manner that they are unattainable for your budget. We’re here to share a way that they don’t need to be.
Consignment shopping is a fast-growing industry. Women take designer pieces from their wardrobes that they no longer wear, no longer fit into or just no longer care for and then resell them to others. Some of my favourite finds over the years have come from a good consignment shopping find, and I’m confident that it is something that more women than you think actually partake in. Would Kate consignment shop? Absolutely.
How am I so sure? Many will remember a few years ago when we saw Kate out vintage shopping for pieces whilst pregnant with George – she was essentially consignment shopping then! While Kate doesn’t have the need to search for deals like the rest of us, her history of hunting for them combined with her love of quality brands would definitely have her clamouring to find some amazing finds. It’s important to point out that is not necessarily cheapest of shopping options. If you’re looking for a Smythe blazer for $20, you’re never going to find that. BUT if you remember that you’re buying excellent quality designer goods… You’ll thank me in the future. You’ll be buying quality pieces you can wear time and time again and will escape the fast fashion “wear-wash-throwout” cycle.
Some of you might be turned off by the thought of consignment shopping, thinking to thrift stores of old. Today’s modern consignment shops have not only a boutique-type feel, but they often feature brands and items that you wouldn’t necessarily be able to easily find in other stores. The best part about the modernization of things is that many of the new consignment world is online – shopping Kate’s favourite brands is as easy as moving the mouse across your screen.
One of my favourite places to shop is a site called the upside. They are a Canadian company offering authenticated luxury consignments at great prices. They ship worldwide and the best part for my American friends? You can shop in Canadian dollars, meaning that the price is actually lower for you! Here are only some of my favourite Kate-inspired pieces currently available in their shop:
Perfect Blazers
The perfect blazers something Kate has made a staple of her wardrobe, often pairing Canadian designer Smythe in the equation. This black wool Smythe jacket is perfectly in line with Kate’s tailored look.
Cute Blouses
A cute, embellished blouse is something that the Duchess could easily pair under her coats to accompany her to almost any occasion – and this embellished Ted Baker London top is no exception. You might remember that Kate has worn various pieces from Ted Baker over the years and we think she’d approve.
Stunning Heels
Kate loves burgundy shoes. From her Gianvito Rossi pumps to her fringed Tods ones – she loves the sophistication of the deep red hue. We think she’d love the delicate mix of both leather and suede on these stunning Aquazzura Hollywood Heels.
Adorable Dresses
Kate wore Missoni coats several times last year – including an engagement to open a charity shop! – and we can definitely see this Missoni knit dress with matching cardigan outfit being a perfect fit for her Spring wardrobe..
Breathtaking Ball Gowns
Because we don’t have to attend galas nearly as often as the Duchess of Cambridge, paying the thousands of dollars to get couture is just unrealistic. Check out this stunning Zuhair Murad dress, perfect for a black-tie gala or red carpet reception.
So take a peek at the upside (or if you have some pieces laying around you’re looking to get rid of, consign with them – make money off clothes you aren’t wearing anymore!) and see how we add some luxe pieces to our own wardrobes for a song. It’s a great way to be both budget and fashion conscious.
Just found your column on our Royal Family and I loved it, I will become a regular.