Kate Middleton's sequin dresses - and the best high street buys to recreate her show-stopping style for party season
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As Christmas and New Year draw ever closer, there's no better excuse to treat yourself to a new party dress. And nothing captures the magic of the festive season quite like sequins - just look to the Princess of Wales for inspiration.
Over the years, Kate has showcased a dazzling array of gowns, from classic red, emerald and gold to softly flattering pastel pinks and icy blues.
When it comes to show-stopping eveningwear, Jenny Packham has become a firm favourite of the Princess. She has worn a number of eye-catching dresses by the British designer, most recently at the state banquet at Windsor Castle.
Below, I've rounded up Kate's standout sequin moments - alongside high street finds that let you recreate her signature sparkle this Christmas.
Royal blue
For the recent state banquet held in honour of the German president, Kate certainly didn't disappoint.
She stepped out in a glittering cornflower blue Jenny Packham gown, teamed with Gianvito Rossi's Rania 105 pumps and an Anya Hindmarch clutch, topping off the look with Queen Victoria's Oriental Circlet Tiara.
The caped gown dazzled with intricate sequin embellishment and dramatic draping - two of Kate's signature style elements. An asymmetric neckline added a modern twist to an otherwise classic silhouette.
A similar Jenny Packham style is available to buy - but I'm particularly fond of this stunning option from Needle & Thread.
Red
Kate debuted her swoon-worthy Needle & Thread dress at a Buckingham Palace reception in January 2020, before bringing it back for the trailer of the 2022 Together At Christmas carol service.
The red figure-skimming design - featuring a frilled neckline, a partially lined bodice that offers a subtle hint of décolletage, and delicate lace-effect sleeves - was an instant hit when I recently tried it on.
Unsurprisingly, it's become one of the brand's bestsellers, selling out within a day of Kate's first appearance and amassing a waiting list of 700 eager buyers. Stock is now frequently replenished to meet demand.
If it exceeds your budget, this sequinned option from Next delivers the same festive brilliance for far less.
Emerald green
Kate debuted her glittering green gown during the five-day royal tour of Pakistan in 2019.
Crafted from emerald satin, the Jenny Packham Tenille dress is drenched in thousands of sequins, creating a truly dazzling display.
In 2021, the Princess repeated the exquisite design for the Royal Variety Performance, accessorising with a bespoke clutch by the British designer.
While the original gown has since sold out, you can still shop a similar silhouette from the current collection - or recreate the look for less with Love & Roses.
Gold
Kate's appearance at the world premiere of No Time To Die was unforgettable.
She stepped onto the red carpet in an opulent gold caped gown by Jenny Packham, a designer who clearly understands the irresistible allure of sequins. With its liquid-like sheen and dramatic silhouette, the dress radiated pure glamour.
Kate completed the look with Aquazzura's Fenix heels, bespoke O'nitaa earrings first worn in 2019, and a polished updo.
It was perfection - and easy to emulate, whether you choose a Jenny Packham design or a high street alternative.
Pastel pink
Kate wore a gleaming pale pink gown to Crown Prince Hussein and Rajwa Al Saif's wedding reception in Jordan, later repeating the look for the 2023 diplomatic reception at Buckingham Palace.
The Princess' dress felt familiar; the metallic-rose Georgia gown mirrors the silhouette and crystal detailing of her green Tenille dress from Pakistan.
The delicate blush shade offers a charming alternative to traditional festive hues like red and green, and suits a wide range of complexions.
These high street finds beautifully capture the same romantic charm as Kate's designer version.
Ice blue
For a visit to London's Palladium Theatre in late November 2017, Kate chose an icy-blue sequinned gown by Jenny Packham.
Layers of illusion tulle, light-catching crystals, and tonal powder-blue floral sequins created a dreamy, ethereal effect.
The gown may also have held a sweet hidden meaning - a nod to the baby boy she was expecting the following April, Prince Louis.
You can channel the same frosty elegance with these refined alternatives.
