A 'Pretty in Pink' Parade of Fashion Closes Our 'Styling Kate' 2023 Series

As our Styling Kate 2023 series draws to a close, it would be remiss me of me not to begin this post by saying thank you. Thank you to each and every one of you who participated, reached out, encouraged other posters, and made this such an enjoyable activity. From an array of sustainably researched looks for Earthshot to a sea of sartorial diplomacy for formal daywear in Wales, I think you'll agree we saved the best for last! With a simple brief of Go Pink!, I was so interested to see which events, designers and accessories you would use when given carte blanche to really indulge your creative sides without restrictions. The results are incredible and it is perhaps no surprise this section was the most popular with our stylists. The Princess has developed something of a penchant for the hue of late. Should it continue into autumn, you've given Kate and her team ample options to explore :)

Betty G - Betty kicks all things pink off for us with a decadent gown from the Valentino Pink PP collection. The bejewelled creation is styled with a pair of Valentino satin slingbacks, a pair of Kate Spade New York earrings made of crystals, imitation pearls and freshwater pearls, and a Nina Gelsey clutch. One of the most commanding tiaras in the royal collection -- the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara is the crowning jewel of the look.

Alaina - Choosing "Barbie Pink for a date night look", Alaina selected Roland Mouret's fuchsia Draped Cady Midi Dress. The dress, which features "draped petal-like overlay" is styled with a statement pair of Aquazzura Tequila 105 crystal embellished suede sandals, and Kate's Kiki McDonough Grace white topaz and diamond stud earrings.

Louise, London - Choosing a look which embodies "a bit of fun, for a summer wedding", we have Jenny Packham's feather-trim shift dress in 'waterlily pink' with a crystal-embellished neckline. Continuing a summery pastel feel, Louise chose a pair of Rupert Sanderson Cavalla square-toe pumps, Kate's Lulu Guinness clutch, and a pair of Kiki McDonough Peridot and Blue Topaz oval earrings. A very pretty Jenny Roberts headband completes the look.

Jennifer - Jennifer described her look as "feeling very Queen Máxima", adding, "Over the top is fun once in a while." We have the gorgeous Kennedy Tweed Overcoat by SA Styles teamed with a pair of Charles and Keith beige boots, the De Mellier London Clutch in 'taupe smooth', a pair of beige gloves, and the Hersilia wide brim hat by Jane Taylor (a fabulous piece worn by the Duchess of Edinburgh at Royal Ascot).

Elle - Our stylist Elle notes: "I too thought of Barbie Pink as 'Date Night'. Maybe Kate and Wills would go dancing at a local upscale club. I started with Pink, Wide-leg Slacks and paired it with this darling Zimmerman lace top. I couldn't believe that I wasn't able to find a pair of black strappy sandals in Kate's closet so I had to go shopping and found these which are only 85mm high (perfect for dancing) and would accessorize with Kate's Electric Gem Statement Earrings -- and her Wilbur & Gussie 'Charlie' Clutch in Gold Glitter. Of course a high ponytail completes the look for a night of dancing."

Bluefire - An elegant Mac Duggal Floral Appliqué Long Sleeve Lace A-Line Gown in rose pink is styled with a stunning Chaumet Joséphine pearl necklace, a Saint Laurent Puffer clutch and Jimmy Choo Aveline bow sandals.

Micky - When choosing a look for the pink theme, Micky decided it was time for a touch of glam! A bustier evening gown in 'sugar pink' by Kate's favoured fashion house Alexander McQueen would be worn with "Kate’s necklace and bracelet...made from diamonds and rubies set in 18K white gold". You'll remember these Mouawad beauties (originally worn with Kate's much loved black strapless velvet McQueen dress). The Judith Leiber Beach Mural bag and Christian Louboutin "glass slippers fit for a princess" complete the sparkling evening look.

Nicole - For a pretty in pink date night look -- possibly for an evening on Mustique, Nicole chose the chic Banana Republic Athena top and a whimsical asymmetric pleated skirt by Mango. A pair of champagne wrap sandals by Margaux, Pink and Pearl Nelle earrings add another delicate touch of pink while a pearl raffia Pamela Munson clutch adds a final accessory for dinner and cocktails on the beach!

Nancy, Iowa - A Stella McCartney Iconics Silk Crêpe de Chine Asymmetric Dress in 'vibrant orchid pink' is styled with the striking Sézane 'Anita' floral earrings and hot pink velvet accessories from Emmy London. The contrasting accents of pink work splendidly. At this juncture, I want to generally remark on how fabulous all of the different takes are looking.

Laura (Japanese Ginger) - Our royal style expert Laura shared: "For the last challenge of pink I'm going to highlight a designer from Northern Ireland I'd love to see Kate champion, Shauna Fay. Shauna's designs are so feminine and feel so Kate to me. I chose a soft pink dress for Kate. To go with it, I added a new color to Kate's Emmy London collection, cupcake. I love the different shades of pink with the dress and accessories to lean into the Barbie theme. To finish it off, I thought a Kate fave of pearl earrings made sense. And because I love the Swedish Royal Family and Will and Kate visiting Sweden is still one of my top royal moments ever (especially when they met Estelle and Oscar) I chose the in2Design earrings Kate debuted on that visit."

Sirael - The date night was a very popular theme for this category as we so rarely see Kate's "off-duty wardrobe". Sirael selected a floral crystal-embellished Burberry sweater and Rochas A-line mini skirt for the evening, which might potentially see the couple attending a party. A pair of pearl-detail Jimmy Choo ballerinas and Kate's Annoushka baroque pearls finish the ensemble.

Jan - A striking pink look styled for the Chelsea Flower Show or a casual look from Jan includes a pair of Zimmermann belted floral-print silk and cotton-blend twill shorts teamed with a silk champagne sleeveless cowl neck top. The Queen's jaw-dropping Williamson brooch (arguably the finest pink diamond ever produced) adds the most sparkling touch of pink. A Marc Jacobs tote and Margaux wrap sandals complete the look.

Katie - "I was inspired by her iconic pink-checkered dress. While this silhouette is a bit different, I think it's super playful and fun," Katie said. Alexander McQueen's Pleated Corset Dress in Psychedelic Pink is styled with Jimmy Choo's Avenue Quad bag and Latte Patent Leather pumps. Katie accessorised with a pair of Sophie Billie Brahe earrings and a Mikimoto 18 karat white gold pearl necklace.

MILady - For a pink inspired outfit, MILady chose several British brands worn by the Princess with some frequency. The Hobbs London Rosabelle Silk Floral Dress is complemented by Kate's Kiki McDonough cushion cut morganite earrings, Aspinal of London Midi Mayfair bag in ivory patent leather, and a pair of L.K. Bennett Fiora off-white leather court shoes.

Anonymous - A flared crystal-embellished gown by Jenny Packham with short draped sleeves and sheer overlay is styled with Kate's Kiki Morganite statement earrings, Kate's Josef beaded clutch, Kate's L.K. Bennett Agata sandals and the Queen's diamond Quatrefoil bracelet. I suspect this look has you looking forward to potential evening events over the autumn :)

Intrigued by Royals - Speaking of sweeping gowns, take a look at this dusky rose Monique Lhuillier strapless ball gown. With a tulip neckline, the piece is from the designer's Spring 2023 RTW collection. I think you'll agree, it's fit for a princess :)

 

Pilar from Spain - For a morning visit to any of her patronages in early September, Pilar chose a soft pink midi dress with button detailing on the neckline matched with Kate's Aldo shoes, a mauve Poléne bag, and a pair of the Queen's pearl and diamond earrings often worn by the Princess.

Zora from Prague - With the theme of pink in mind, Zora got to work planning two very different looks for the Princess. First, we have a casual look which would be suitable for a "casual afternoon in the park with the kids". Kate's LK. Bennett Madison dress is teamed with a pair of Stella McCartney Hestia espadrille wedges. Kate's hair would be styled in a ponytail.

For a white-tie evening, Zora describes her dream look for the Princess: "I selected a dress by Blanka Matragi, a Czech-born designer who has created numerous models for high society. I believe Kate would look gorgeous in this gown, possibly teaming it with the Queen Mary's Honeysuckle Tiara and Oscar de la Renta Cabrina Pumps. As for the hairstyle, I'd opt for an updo (similar to the one pictured - Chignon haut); plus - Heavenly London 'Pearl and Diamond Earrings'."

Alina89 - Alina shared her lovely look with the following comment: "This soft pink Jenny Packham dress is simple but elegant and would look gorgeous on Catherine. First I thought glittery silver accessories would go well with the dress, but staying with the Pink theme, I chose pink shoes and a bag in the end. Both the dress and accessories are brands that Kate likes and often wears: Jenny Packham, Jimmy Choo and Emmy London. And of course you need a little sparkle. So Queen Elizabeth's diamond and pearl earrings and the Round Halo cluster diamond bracelet would complete the set perfectly. With a nice updo I think it would be the perfect outfit for an evening event."

Laura (Solid Moonlight) - Known on royal Twitter (X) for her great eye for royal style and love of the Golden Age of Hollywood (I've found many fantastic movie night ideas from following her blog), I was excited to see Laura's choice. Laura notes: "The occasion is a cocktail party. I combined Catherine’s love of pearls with the off-the-shoulder look she’s been rocking lately and one of her new favorite brands, Camilla Elphick. The full skirt is something we don’t see her in often, but this ensemble stays true to her timeless style." The vibrant pink Alexander McQueen look is styled with Kate's Elphick belt and Natalia Tan Mules, Kate's Anya Hindmarch Maud clutch, and Cassandra Goad earrings. Hair and make-up would be very much in keeping with Kate's 2019 BAFTA look.

Alejandra - Alejandra chose contrasting shades of pink for a romantic look, which would be selected pieces from Kate's own closet to complement the beautiful Carolina Herrera Sweetheart Midi Dress. For a trendy and fun look (giving serious vibes for dinner and cocktails in London), the dress is teamed with Kate's red suede Gianvito Rossi earrings and Kate Spade Pom Pom earrings. To completely change the effect of the look to something more traditional, we have Kate's Emmy London Rebecca pumps in 'makeup suede', Kiki McDonough cushion cut earrings, with a change of dress neckline to a scoop neck.

Vivian from Colorado - I'm sure a number of you got lost down the rabbit hole of exploration in captivating shades. From fuchsia and coral to salmon and blush, there really is a sea of possibilities. Vivian did just that, and opted to do something a little different with her submission, showcasing a number of her favourite looks. "I lean toward elegant, formal gowns. Some floaty and ethereal. Some columnar and exuding sophisticated elegance. Some dazzling. Some striking in details, especially back detail (which usually begs for a back-revealing updo). Some are lighthearted and playful. I particularly think all of the model photos for each dress — they really show how each dress moves and flows — really helps with envisioning on Kate." Below, the Theia Teresa Draped Tulle Gown, the Chiara Boni La Petite Robe boatneck gown, and the Alice + Olivia Emelia Silk Halterneck gown.

Of the Theia Renata gown, Vivian remarked: "This one is like the silver dress that Kate wore after George was born, but here in pink, and with more character. I also think she’s got far more confidence now, and so, this would be dazzling on her — more so than a rewear of the silver one."

For the MacDuggal satin piece, Vivian notes: "Like the grey/silver satin Grecian gown in her newlywed era, but a new and fun take on that, and in pink. The color choice could be a be-spoke brighter shade of pink.  Would look fabulous with diamonds that play off of the waist/back detail (perhaps also nestled into her hair updo!)." We also see another MacDuggal design in magenta which Vivian describes as "clever", and a Barbie pink Amada Uprichard piece.

On the Tadashi Shoji gown, Vivian remarks: "This one combines several elements Kate has worn flawlessly.  Columnar dress, perfectly tailored neckline, sophisticated bow detail at shoulder, elegant asymmetry, and just the right drape in back." Finally, we have an elegant Oscar de la Renta creation.

Adrienne - Describing her look as "pure theatrical escapism", Adrienne adds: "Inspired by the pink look worn by Lucille Ball in the film Ziegfeld Follies. It's an updated version of what the glamorous Ziegfeld girls would have worn in the famous theatrical productions. I had to include the perfect lipstick for the look called Sunday Matinée." Jenny Packham's Feather-Trimmed Embellished Rose Gold gown will be styled with a head piece by Suzannah echoing the feather detail of the dress. The look also includes a pair of Mach & Mach bow detail pumps, long silk opera gloves and Van Cleef & Arpels jewels.

Marci A - Marci went digging into Kate's closet to produce the possibility of the repeat we didn't know we needed! First of all, this submission may be worn at Earthshot, as it merely happens to be pink. I wanted to save it for this category as the pink McQueen gown Marci chose looks utterly fabulous; we just haven't seen the entirety of it yet. In her email, Marci told me, "Since we haven’t actually seen this gown in full, I’m speculating. I chose the pink one-shoulder gown that Kate wore to Charles’ 70 birthday party in November 2018. I am imagining it as a precursor copied by the McQueen one-shoulder white gown she wore to the 2019 Bafta Awards. With that style in mind, she would have a soft updo, wear the Royal Vault Antique Girandole earrings, her Mappin & Webb orchid brooch (for the Singapore state flower) either nestled in the feathery shoulder piece or in her hair, and her Prada wavy-strap sandals. For a clutch, I would have her carry her Prada rosa minaudiere clutch in burgundy velvet."

Molly Claire - "For the 'pink' challenge I imagined Kate was participating in some kind of charity sailing event for breast cancer research (hence tying in the need for pink) and turned to J-crew and Columbia for a a pink Breton top and pink shorts, then Kate’s classic white Superga sneakers," Molly Claire said.

Carrie from Colorado - Carrie told me: "I'm not a fan of the color pink, but I asked myself 'what casual look could I see Kate wearing at the movie theater with Charlotte watching Barbie, blending in with movie goers?' And this is how I see her. Everything is from Harrods mainly, with her usual sunglasses and her hair just in a ponytail." The pink and white combinations we've seen from Carrie and Molly Claire feel incredibly summery and versatile.

Gigi - Like so many of you, Gigi has been enthralled by style at the Barbie premieres over the summer and the ever inventive use of pink. With this in mind, she envisaged Kate attended a special premiere of the film, with high octane glamour required, benefitting several of her causes. The glittering Jenny Packham Jean Embellished Gathered Gown would be worn with Kate's Jimmy Choo Vamp sandals and Ubai clutch, the Greville chandelier earrings and the Williamson pink diamond brooch (as you all know, I adore this piece). Kate's hair would be worn in a half-up-half-down style.

Juniperfj - For her fabulous look, Juniperfj describes her stylish choices: "For the bonus pink look, I chose a festive look for Ascot centered on Eponine London's 'Tilia' skirt suit using bold and colorful Hmong embroidery in pink, coral, and red shades. It's paired with a whimsical boater from Australian milliner Marla Carmeta. We're also using ethical jewelry from Xander Kostroma (they developed a great relationship during the Welsh trip, of course! Sustainable block heels from London brand Saint+Sofia and a super fun raffia clutch from Ubuntu Life."

Lady West - A Dolce & Gabbana dress adorned with vibrant pink motifs and splashes of our chosen hue is teamed with a striking pair of Christian Louboutin slingback shoes and a pair of statement, chic gold earrings.

Elle B - Now to our next sweeping white-tie evening look, courtesy of Elle. Our talented stylist told me she chose a "Mac Duggal magenta ball gown. Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. New set of diamond and pink sapphire earrings and necklace currently up for auction on eBay. Queen Mother's diamond bracelet. Kate's Jimmy Choo vamp pumps. Hair: Pulled back but down with waves like Jordan wedding".

Karen D - A elegant 1950s style dress with a square neckline is styled with a pair of Kiki McDonough 'Lace' earrings and a white topaz necklace. The look is completed with candy pink Jimmy Choo shoes and a clutch. Another very nice addition to the daytime category.

Joanne in CA - Before I share Joanne's lovely look, I want to briefly touch on something. The reason I love doing this activity is the simple fact it offers a rare time to truly bring the royal watching community together, in times where division can so often feel the order of the day. Joanne commented on each and every look in our Wales section, and I thought it a touching and genuinely kind gesture. 

For a touch of pretty in pink, Joanne said: "So excited for our styling event! I’ve selected the Go Pink category. My thought is that she is attending the Barbie premiere! I’ve included links and pics just in case. Pink gown, rose gold glitter sandals, the beautiful pink earrings, hair in an updo, and sparkling pink clutch."

Khilen - Now for our very last stylist, we have Khilen who shared his excitement about this activity with looks for multiple occasions. For a potential engagement celebrating the opening of the new Acute and Emergency Hospital, the Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital, a "soft pink Giambattista Valli Coat with matching day dress made by the Princess' in house dressmaker". It would be worn with either a pair of Jimmy Choo Romy pumps or Gianvito Rossi Plexi heels. A Hermès Jige women's clutch bag in grey leather, a pair of Cornelia James gloves and a bespoke Phillip Treacy hat in soft pink and grey made with the same wool material as the Princess' coat (alternatively a John Boyd hat). Khilen noted: "I didn't go full Barbie like on this ensemble as we are taking about our future Queen in her royal life. But something subtle like this works well nonetheless."

Jewellery would potentially include the Queen's diamond and pearl earrings. One of the following brooches: Queen Mary's Pink Sapphire and diamond brooch; one of the Nizam of Hyderabad diamond rose brooches; Queen Elizabeth II Rose of England diamond and platinum brooch and 1 strand pearl necklace; Harry Winston or one from the royal vaults.

Considering evening options, Khilen was struck by the following combinations for black-tie wear.

Two options:

• Marchesa Resort 2019 -- One-shoulder silk Mikado gown in light and fuchsia pink.
• Reem Acra draped deep V Mikado silk gown in pink with ruby red silk Mikado waist detail.
• A matching cape should be worn by the Princess prior to entering the Royal Albert Hall and after the performance is over. 
• Gorski Cashmere Cape with Toscana Lamb Trim in light grey -- Neiman Marcus. 
• Jewelry: All black tie for the Royal Variety Performance. 
• Bracelets: Diamond Quatrefoil Bracelet, or the diamond baguette and brilliant bracelet. 
• Earrings: Diana's ruby, diamond and pearl earrings.
• Necklace: The King Faisal diamond necklace by Harry Winston -- Royal family vaults. 
• Jimmy Choo Mimi 100 Antracite Metallic Sandals paired with the Alexander McQueen box clutch. 
• Jimmy Choo Dart Sandals to be paired with the Jenny Packham Casa box clutch. 

Khilen's white-tie look specifications:

White Tie State Banquet -- Buckingham Palace -- Luxembourg -- Grand Ducal Couple visit to the United Kingdom.

Gowns -- Four options:

• Vintage -- Cristobal Balenciaga Haute Couture 1960s light pink floral and dark green silk waist detail.
• Christobal Balenciaga -- 1960s Haute Couture vintage gown -- soft pink and moss green floral embroidery. 
• House of Givenchy -- vintage pink 1960s gown. 
• Fuchsia pink -- Vintage Oscar de la Renta gown -- this option allows the Princess's in house dressmaker to add diamante and other embellishments. 
• Gloves -- Cornelia James -- Bespoke Soft Ivory/White -- Desdemona Silk Opera Gloves with Mousquetaire in Ivory. 
• Evening cape: Gorsksi wool and cashmere cape with Toscana Lamb trim in light sand. 
• Worn by the Princess of Wales on the way to the State banquet but removed prior to the banquet.
• Shoes: Three options: Gianvito Rossi Plexi heels in Gold. Gianvito Rossi heels in Gold metallic leather. Aquazurra Fenix Heels in Gold. 
• Bag: Two options: Bottega Veneta pale gold plated box clutch in Natural. Anya Hindmarch Marano gold glitter box clutch (Repeat).
• Jewelry: Brooches: Three options: Prince Albert Pink Diamond brooch secures RVO/ foreign royal order sash on the front of the shoulder -- Royal Vaults. Rose of England diamond and ruby brooch -- given by Sultan Qaboos Bin Said of Oman -- Royal Vaults. Secure the front of the  Royal Victorian Order sash/foreign royal sash. 
• The Queen Mother's Australian Hibiscus Diamond and Ruby brooch -- secure sash at the front of the Princess's shoulder.
• 14 Diamond Bar Brooch to secure the sash at the back.
• Bracelets: Two options: Diamond and Ruby bracelet (worn by the Queen for the 2018 Commonwealth State Dinner, in April of that year).  (No known provenance.) 
• Second option: Diamond quatrefoil bracelet (worn by the Princess on numerous occasions.)
• Necklaces: A Collet diamond style necklace will be used. 
• Two options -- either will work: George VI Diamond Festoon Necklace. 1 strand diamond collet necklace -- the same used by the Princess for the annual Diplomatic Reception in December 2017.
• Earrings: Queen Elizabeth II Antique Diamond Girandole Earrings -- Royal Vaults. 
• Tiara: Queen Alexandra's Diamond Kokoshnik Tiara ( my secret hope on this one being worn soon :)
• Second option and likely to be the case: Queen Mary's Lover's Knot tiara.
• Royal Orders: If no foreign order is bestowed then the Princess as per protocol will wear the star and sash of the Royal Victorian Order. But should the Grand Duke of Luxembourg do so, then she will omit the sash of the RVO but wear the star of the order alongside her Luxembourg royal sash and star. Royal Family Order of Queen Elizabeth II. Royal Family Order of Charles III -- hopefully bestowed soon.

And that's a wrap!

Thank you, thank you, thank you for joining me on this most enjoyable August distraction. If I omitted any look accidentally, please email me at hrhcatherineblog@hotmail.com and I will include it immediately.