Kate Middleton was thrust onto the fashion scene whether she wanted to be or not, once news broke of her engagement to Prince William. The Dutchess of Cambridge has been acclaimed for her perfectly put-together and lady-like ensembles. Several blogs have spawned with the mission of documenting (and helping you copy) Mrs. Kate's every stylish move including dutchessofcambridgestyle.org, katemiddletonstyle.org and whatkatewore.com. Kate's looks even inspired countless Halloween costumes this year. 

Sure, she can wear whatever exclusive, expensive brands she likes, but lots of her looks are attainable, as she also works pieces by Ralph Lauren and Zara into her wardrobe. But you better be quick if you want to dress like a modern Dutchess. Stores have been notorious for selling out of something just hours after she wears it. 

Kate looks pretty in pink at her first official function as Dutchess of Cambridge in June. She donned a floor-length blush organza Jenny Packham gown at the 10th annual Absolute Return for Kids (ARK) gala dinner. This picture was named by one of the 21 Best Celeb Snapshots of 2011 by People Magazine. 

Kate also recently wowed the red carpet in a black velvet dress by Alexander McQueen at The Sun Military Awards in London. 

 

 

 

 

Lady Kate also seems to be quite fond of lace, traditionally a delicate and feminine fabric.

In June, Kate arrived in Canada wearing a navy blue lace Cecile shift dress by Canadian designer Erdem. This was paired with one of her favorite pairs of pumps: leather taupe-colored Sledge2 shoes by L.K. Bennett. 

This month, she appeared at the Gary Barlow concert fundraiser in a champagne-colored Lace Tulip Dress by Zara.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And who can forget the brilliant blue silk jersey Issa dress Kate wore for her first post-engagement press call. It perfectly matched the 18-carat blue sapphire gem (surrounded by 14 diamonds) that she inherited from Princess Di via her new Royal hubby.

Within 24 hours of her appearance, the dress was completely sold out across the UK and several other stores were scrambling to create knock-offs. 

Kate clearly favors dresses over most other pieces like pants or skirts. We love this green silk Diane Von Furstenberg frock she wore both in LA and aboard the royal “Britannia” yacht. And she looks like she could easily blend in with us normal folk in this casual, olive-colored Ralph Lauren Blue Label long-sleeved turtleneck dress. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The weather is often cold and/or rainy in England, so Kate has become known for her collection of coats.

She has quite the range, from a classic Burberry trench she wore in Belfast in March to a bright red LK Bennett 'Ami' coat she used to keep warm in Copenhagen for a UNICEF charity event. 

[See more of Kate's coats and vote for your favorite here.] 

 

 

 

 

Kate favors more than a few designers including Katherine Hooker, Mulberry, Alexander McQueen, Ralph Lauren, LK Bennett, Zara and Diane Von Furstenberg. Instead of following every fleeting fashion trend, Kate keeps it simple and elegant. When your wardrobe is a collection of classic pieces, you don't have to worry about it going out of style.