Many members of the Royal Family are avid fashion enthusiasts and, just like the rest of us, they have go-to wardrobe picks that they just can’t get enough of
The Royal Family, like us common folk, have their favourite fashion staples that they can’t resist wearing time and again. We all love seeing the Royals in designer gear for a bit of style inspiration, but it’s equally delightful when they recycle a previous ensemble.
Kate Middleton’s recent appearance at a festive event in December served as a reminder of the many times Royals have re-worn outfits over the years, so we’re taking a nostalgic look back at some of our favourites. From Kate’s trusty Breton top to Princess Eugenie’s beloved floral dress, here are some memorable recycled Royal fashion moments.
Remembering Royal recycled style moments
Kate’s Alexander McQueen coat
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The Princess of Wales has been largely out of the public eye this year, focusing on her health and family, but she delighted us all earlier this month when she donned a stunning red outfit for the annual Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey.
Kate Middleton was spotted in a striking red, long-line coat from one of her favourite designers, Alexander McQueen. Eagle-eyed fans noticed that it wasn’t the first time she’d worn his look. The Princess first wore the red double-breasted coat in 2020 for the launch of her Hold Still photography project, and then again two months later with a black turtleneck and an Emilia Wickstead tartan skirt,
Kate’s Erdem sweater
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Over the years, Kate has often been seen wearing the cosy Erdem Lotus Striped Sweater. Notable appearances include her 2021 visit to St. Andrews University, Prince Louis’s fifth birthday photos, and a pub meet-up with the ‘Dadvengers. ‘ Most recently, she wore this sentimental piece in her poignant video addressing cancer, a moment that deeply resonated with many.
Kate’s Alexander McQueen gown
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Another item of Kate’s wardrobe that we were delighted to see her wear again was the stunning black floral Alexander McQueen gown that she first wore for the 2017 BAFTA Awards. The Princess decided to bring it back two years later, in 2019, when she attended the NPG Portrait Gala in London.
However, this time she chose to redesign the ensemble by adding cap sleeves and altering the neckline to suit the more formal event.
Princess Beatrice’s Nonoo Lyons Coat
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Princess Beatrice is one Royal who isn’t afraid to recycle her favourite wardrobe pieces, having worn a particular garment over ten times. At the 2022 Service of Thanksgiving for the Duke of Edinburgh, she donned a grey balloon sleeve coat from Nonoo Lyons, aptly named the ‘Beatrice’ coat, paired with a striking deep red headband by Justine Bradley-Hill.
First seen in December 2010, the jacket has made an appearance nearly every year since.
Sophie’s Loewe dress
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Another fashion-conscious Royal is Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who stepped out in New York in March 2022 wearing a Loewe anagram-belt leather midi dress that she had previously worn in October 2021. This isn’t the first time the Duchess has recycled her outfits, as she’s known for re-wearing her best wedding guest ensembles.
Sophie’s Alaia dress
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In April 2019, Sophie attended the British Bobsleigh and Skeleton Gala Dinner in a stunning navy blue Azzedine Alaia fit-and-flare dress that cost a hefty £2290. However, the Royal certainly got her money’s worth out of the dress. Sophie was previously seen in the pricey frock at Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank’s wedding back in October 2018, where she paired it with a stunning matching hat.
Princess Eugenie’s Claudie Pierlot dress
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In February 2022, Princess Eugenie opted for one of her favourite dresses for a dinner date with her cousin Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle in Santa Barbara, LA. The spring-inspired floral number by Claudie Pierlot has been worn by Eugenie on several occasions.
She wore it in October 2020 during a special visit for Anti Slavery Day, again in 2019 for a dinner outing, and once more in June 2018 for a ‘Pass on Plastic’ charity event.
