Why Kate Middleton Is the Queen of Coats

By Christian AllaireEdited by Madeline Fass

January 9, 2020

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Happy birthday, Kate Middleton! Today, the Duchess of Cambridge turns 38. During her time as duchess, the stylish royal has cultivated a personal look all her own. Middleton is always armed with her signature polished sensibility, ready for the many public engagements she carries out from day to day. But there is one particular staple she turns to time and time again: outerwear. A great coat has proven to be Middleton’s secret weapon; she often re-wears the same styles across many months but switches up the accessories to make her ensembles feel fresh and new.

A few coats on Middleton’s hit list? She is a regular wearer of the coat dress, a below-the-knee style that does all of the work (just pair a simple dress underneath and the outfit is ready to go). She often sports designs from London-based labels such as Alexander McQueen and Catherine Walker. She is also a major fan of tailoring in general, wearing everything from double-breasted coats to structured tuxedo styles for evening.

Last month, Middleton also got on board with the faux-fur movement that has been taking over fashion, wearing a synthetic-trimmed coat that was also by Catherine Walker. As for one of her more unexpected choices this winter season? The duchess stepped out in a bright red puffer in December by Perfect Moment, which had a more sportif feel than her typical toppers.

Below, shop Middleton’s five go-to coat styles.