Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle are both bonafide style icons. The former is known for wearing more conservative clothing, usually opting for polished ball gowns and structured tea dresses. The latter is a little more of a royal risk taker. Markle is, after all, known for wearing suit separates, off-the-shoulder necklines, dark nail polish, and other things that the royal family traditionally avoids. Whether you're a Kate or a Meghan, or somewhere in between, you have to admit that they both do a swell job of combining fashion, function, and tradition into every single outfit that they wear. No matter what time of year it is or what event they're attending, they appear elegant, elevated, and polished.
Seeing as it's already mid-June, and warm weather is upon us, we thought we'd take a look back at Kate and Meghan's most regal summer outfits. You won't catch them wearing denim shorts and sandals. No, they have stately summer dressing down to an exact science. Keep scrolling to learn how you can look as expensive as a royal all summer long.
Kate Middleton's Summer Style
Remember how we said the Duchess of Cambridge loves to wear tea dresses? This is a prime example. She wore this Jenny Packham dress during the Canadian royal tour back in 2016, and we're still not over it.
It's not Jenny Packham, but it will give you a similar summertime look.
Here's another Duchess of Cambridge look that we're bringing back from the archives. Kate made an appearance (and a big impression) by wearing this ever-so-chic French nautical-inspired outfit. We love how she paired her Breton stripe top and high-waisted trousers with a bright red clutch.
The exact trousers Kate wore are these sailor-esque culottes from LK Bennett.
To us, this is a classic Kate Middleton look, thanks to her blush-colored A-line dress and nude heels. It's quite a simple outfit, but one that's timeless and elegant all the same.
The exact Lela Rose dress Kate was wearing is out of stock, although this Trina Turk A-line dress is similar.
Yes, culottes are approved by royalty (in case you were wondering). Here, Kate makes a royal appearance wearing an effortlessly cool pair of taupe culottes, a lace button-down shirt, and (gasp!) white sneakers.
Kate's culottes were by Massimo Dutti, which is a chic (and comparatively affordable!) label. Although the exact pair seem to be out of stock, shop this similar style.
Polka dots are just another classic in the duchess's arsenal. Here, her A-line dress is the perfect way to beat the heat while still looking put-together.
This dress has the same A-line hem and polka dot print as Kate's dress. We like the ruffled neckline, which gives it some summer-y flair.
Meghan Markle's Summer Style
Even when Meghan Markle dresses casual, she looks polished and put-together. The duchess wore this breezy, belted dress while out and about with Prince Harry, and it immediately made headlines after eagle-eyed fans noticed it was from Reformation (See? Looking expensive doesn't necessarily mean you have to wear expensive items.)
Here it is—the exact dress Meghan wore. It's pretty affordable too, at least compared to her other designer items.
Who can forget the time Meghan appeared at Wimbledon wearing what just might be the most elevated, crisp summer outfit of all time? Do as she did, and pair wide-legged pants with a striped button-down shirt and white fedora.
The exact blouse Meghan wore was this slightly oversize one by Ralph Lauren, but it's easy to get the look at any budget.
We think this outfit has summer wedding guest written all over it. The high-low hem and racerback design feel modern and fresh, while the double-breasted detail and nude stilettos keep it looking polished and expensive.
This double-breasted blazer dress from ASOS feels just as expensive, even though it's a fraction of the price of Meghan's Antonio Berardi gown.
Meghan is pictured at the celebration for the Prince of Wales' 70th birthday. She's dressed conservative enough to win the Queen's approval, yet thanks to the mesh insert on her dress and her sleek sun-shielding hat, she still looks modern.
You can get the exact dress Meghan wore here, but another option is this classic sheath dress with a modern twist.
Meghan proves that the best way to smarten up a summery dress and a crossbody bag is by tossing a black blazer over the top.
Meghan's exact Altuzarra dress is sold out, but just like with any other royal outfit, there are other, similar styles out there. We like this one since it features pinstriped fabric and button detailing.
Next up, six things the royal family never gets to wear.