Dear Kate Middleton, Let’s Shake Up Your Style Game
Dear Mrs. Wales,
Few individuals have the power to actually influence fashion—and by “influence,” we mean, “get people to buy expensive clothes.” Kate Moss can do it. Kanye West can do it. And—as shutdowns at ISSA, Reiss, and ASOS have proved—you can, too.
Now comes the fun part. You’re young. You’re fit. You have the shiniest hair in the known galaxy. And your image represents Great Britain—literally. So why not show off your looks and your power a little bit more, and help emerging U.K. designers along the way?
Of course, you’re very busy. You run charities. You entertain foreign heads of state. You have to chase two small children around various castles—three small children, if you also count Prince Harry. And your glorious mane doesn’t brush and blow-dry itself.
So we’ve compiled a list of rising UK talent that you can boost with a single stroll around Kensington Gardens—and that might take your style from “pretty” to “phenomenal.” Have a look…
ROYAL EVENT: A Visit to Balmoral Castle in Scotland
You met Prince William at school in Scotland, and frequently return for visits and vacations. So why not support Edinburgh native Samantha McCoach? A former menswear designer for Fred Perry, McCoach learned how to sew as a child, when her grandmother made tartans for traditional Scottish ceremonies. Now McCoach makes her own pleated skirts in silver jacquard and 100% pure Scottish wool. They’re gorgeous, cool, and inspired by the country you rule. What more could you want?
ROYAL EVENT: A Charity Tea
ROYAL WARDROBE: Mother of Pearl
We know you love a good Jenny Packham floral dress. We also know you’ve got better abs than half of Hollywood. Would it be so bad to flash just a sliver of skin while supporting British talent? Mother of Pearl is an emerging UK label with gorgeous embroidered crop tops and matching high waisted skirts. And if you’re following M-Obama’s lead and trying to encourage young women to be more physically active, a tiny glimpse of your toned tummy might help them along. #MotivationMiddleton has a nice ring to it…
ROYAL EVENT: Power Lunch with Princess Beatrice
ROYAL WARDROBE: Barbara Casasola
You’re young, modern, and you literally rule. Time to get seriously chic with Casasola’s sleek black knits and menswear inspired gray overcoat. Besides being grown-up and just edgy enough, these separates come with their own royal stamp of approval: Lady Tallulah Harlech is one of the label’s biggest supporters, even helping style Casasola’s latest runway show.
ROYAL EVENT: A Play Date with George and Charlotte
ROYAL WARDROBE: Rotten Roach
Heidi Klum and Rosie Huntington-Whitley are fans of this year-old label, which began in the Chelsea basement of actress Marissa Montgomery. Now stocked at Harvey Nichols, the line boasts organic cotton tees with kooky phrases—including “Up All Night,” which seems perfect for the busy mother of two young kids. Plus, they’re machine washable, which means George can spill the Royal Sippy Cup all over you and it’s really no big deal.
ROYAL EVENT: The Next James Bond Movie Premiere
ROYAL WARDROBE: Alexander Lewis
At first glance, this silk pleated gown by Alexander Lewis might be a little out there for you—but its delicate color palette and waist-cinching shape make it a stunning, if unexpected, choice for your figure and your English Rose complexion. Feeling extra bold? Ask him to customize this galactic-print sheath dress as floor-length formal wear, and maybe add extra crystal embellishment. After all, your state symbol is a unicorn. Why be afraid to sparkle?
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