No need to call the fashion police: We already know that the royal family has a habit of recycling outfits. It's one of the many reasons we love them so much. (Yes, it also makes us feel better about our chronic clothing repeats.)
So when Kate Middleton was recently photographed in a navy polka-dot dress that we knew we'd seen somewhere before, we cheered internally.
After a few joint engagements with Prince William last week, Middleton stepped out solo to visit Bletchley Park's D-Day exhibit, which marks the 75th anniversary of the landings in Normandy.
The duchess wore a navy polka-dot shirtdress from Alessandra Rich, paired with dusty blue suede heels. With an exaggerated pointy collar, we recognized the dress almost immediately—Middleton last wore it in November 2018 for the royal family's newest portrait. This time, she accessorized her look with a subtle gold brooch and pearl earrings.
Not only is the dress a K.Middy repeat, but it also seems to be a nod to the late Princess Diana, who wore a similar design during a Kensington Palace meeting way back in 1985.
Admittedly, the dresses aren't identical: Diana's features a prominent pussy bow—so retro—and the silhouette of Middleton's is much more modern. But we love that the duchess is always sneaking in a sweet tribute to her MIL.
The Duchess of Cambridge isn't the only one to have worn this particular design. InStyle reports that everyone from Kelly Ripa, Sarah Jessica Parker and even Abigail Spencer (at Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's wedding, no less) has rocked the frock. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, no?