Kate Middleton’s ‘fairytale’ mini dress was her most coquettish look to date

In June 2011, just two months after her wedding, Kate looked ethereal in a white outfit from Reiss for a joyous day at Epsom.

Kate wore the brand’s ‘Peacock’ dress, which was designed with a full chiffon skirt and lace panels. She paired the Carrie Bradshaw-esque look with a tweed ‘Nessie’ jacket by Joseph. 

The tailored style had a Chanel feel, and she topped off the look with an L.K. Bennett clutch and heels. Unsurprisingly, the dress quickly sold out after the royal was pictured in it, and it’s easy to see why. The dress had a dreamy, ethereal opaque finish, which felt undeniably romantic. It’s worth noting that the hemline was flared and shorter than what she would wear today. Playful and slightly coquettish without appearing racy, it epitomised her look at the time.

“The moment Kate started dating Prince William, the nation was transfixed. It was a true fairytale moment; a ‘commoner’ marrying a Prince,” royal fashion expert Miranda Holder previously told HELLO!. 

Kate’s enduring love story with the future King instantly positioned her as a relatable figure – her fashion being the easiest element of the royal to replicate. “Women around the world wanted to be Kate, and in the early days when Kate mostly favoured high street brands, her fans were able to emulate her, even if it was just a token nod,” Miranda noted. 

“She manages to tread that awkward line between fashion and the restrictive etiquette limitations of the working royal perfectly – and all this makes utterly compelling viewing, keeping us hooked.”