Kate Middleton's New Princess of Wales Style Has Been "Premeditated" by the Palace

Kate Middleton stepped out for her first solo royal engagement as Princess of Wales yesterday (October 5), visiting the Royal Surrey County Hospital's maternity unit. Kate wore a cheerful yellow dress for the occasion from "affordable" British label Karen Millen, which celebrity stylist and royal fashion expert Miranda Holder says was very intentional.

"Princess Kate's wardrobe is probably the most important royal wardrobe of the moment—her every outfit being scrutinized around the world the moment she steps out into the public eye," Holder tells Newsweek. "The High Street element of her wardrobe, like every other, will have been planned and premeditated as the impact of every tiny style statement is understood by the palace to communicate to the world an important message."

"This 'diplomatic dressing' was originally mastered by the late Queen Elizabeth ll and Princess Kate is now carrying this fashion legacy forward," she continues. "We have recently seen Kate rewear and rework some old favourite designer pieces which also helps to keep the princess relevant and accessible, and wearing High Street is another way of doing this. This is a thoroughly modern monarchy and the princess and Prince William have expressed in many ways, with clothing being just one of them, that they are of the people and close to the people."

Other High Street Brands Kate loves? She's been known to wear & Other Stories and Zara, but for now go ahead and shop her Karen Millen dress (which comes in a ton of colors) below.

You Might Also Like

• This Breakfast Shake Tastes Like Dessert

• Here’s What NOT to Wear to a Wedding

• Meet the Laziest, Easiest Acne Routine You’ll Ever Try