It’s no wonder that Kate Middleton has exquisite taste when she follows in her mother Carole Middleton’s fashion footsteps.
From learning the importance of cuts of clothing to the significance of sleeve length, there are many reasons why Carole Middleton's outfits are ones we wish to have for ourselves and take note of.
Whenever the 69-year-old steps out she always makes sure to dress in a subtle yet formal ensemble which still ticks the style boxes. Whether that's matching her accessories to her outfits, which is a clear favourite trick of hers to do as this elevates an outfit immediately, to keeping to more subdued shades of bright colours, we are always taking notes.
Here, our resident expert celebrity stylist Scott Wells shows you how to recreate Carole's stylish, designer looks at a mere fraction of the cost.
Our favourite Carole Middleton styles and dresses
She's become somewhat of a style icon over recent years, so we've put together some of our favourite Carole Middleton styles, dresses and outfits from over the years.
Carole looked fantastic at the Coronation of King Charles III. She wore a Royal blue fitted coat dress paired with a matching headband and neutral heels. If you loved Carole Middleton's look and want to recreate it, we've found a lovely lookalike dress you might like for your next event.
Debenhamswww.debenhams.com
This pleated number from Debenhams has a recipe for a great, flattering silhouette. From the wrap over bodice, the pleated skirt and the soft silk fabric which has an elegant drape, you can re-style this for multiple occasions. We wouldn't be surprised if Carole Middleton has this in her wardrobe!
We love the outfit Carole Middleton wore to the wedding of her daughter Kate to Prince William back in 2011 at Westminster Abbey.
Bonprixwww.freemans.com
Take inspiration from Carole's blue coat dress and invest in a blazer which copies the tailored qualities in a more versatile way. A blazer is a great wardrobe piece to pop on to smarten up an outfit.
Carole Middleton knows a thing or two about finding the perfect mother of the bride outfit and she wowed us again at her daughter Pippa's wedding in this powder pink coat dress.
Romanwww.roman.co.uk
A pale pink is always a gorgeous shade to wear. Not only does flatter any age, but it also doesn’t wash people's complexions out. We love the round neckline and the three quarter sleeves on this jacket which gives off a regal feel.
We love the outfit Carole wore to the wedding of her daughter Kate to Prince William back in 2011 at Westminster Abbey.
M&Cowww.mandco.com
If you’ve got any holidays or special events coming up, getting yourself a blue and white patterned dress will become a personal favourite. Opt for a linen fabric which will keep you cool in the heat, but will also give the outfit an expensive edge. Wear with either a ballet flat or a small wedge to dress up or down.
Another Wimbledon look from Carole Middleton was this long red dress she wore paired with a straw hat and classic summer espadrilles.
JD Williamswww.jdwilliams.co.uk
A maxi dress is always in fashion and this is elevated with puff sleeves and textured fabric to add an elegant edge. It also comes with design details to provide the ultimate comfort from a tie back neck and a shirred back panel to allow for stretch.
During The Princess of Wales' visit to Scotland, Middleton took inspiration from her daughter and sported the exact same look for a day at the races in June 2022 to Royal Ascot.
Closet Londonwww.johnlewis.com
Follow in Carole's footsteps and sport a similar look to Kate's with this pink shirt dress from Closet London. The belted waist allows you to show off your bodies natural shape, whilst the puff sleeves balance out your silhouette with the midi-length hemline.
Attending the wedding of Lady Gabriella Windsor, Carole Middleton wore this neutral dress and jacket combo with matching hat for a real chic, classic look.
You can't go wrong at Wimbledon wearing a classic white dress. In 2017, Carole wore this chic white dress featuring simple cap sleeves.
Walliswww.dorothyperkins.com
A white dress from the warmer months is a recipe for success. Not only do you immediately look more formal, but it's a timeless shade. This option from Wallis comes with an elegant lace hemline. Wear with a matching white cardigan for the colder days and evenings.
What are Carole Middleton's favourite colours?
When looking back through an archive of Carole’s outfits there is one which particularly sticks out and that is blue. Whether it be a soft pale shade or a strong royal hue, the colour is her go-to.
In addition to this, she isn’t afraid of sporting other pops of colour such as reds and pinks, and even braving a more stripped back neutral ensemble.
What are Carole Middleton's style rules?
From looking through some of our favourite Carole outfits, you can easily identify similar design features. For example, when it comes to the length of her skirts and dresses, she always opts for above the knee. This makes for one of the most flattering cuts as it works to naturally elongate your silhouette due to where the hem falls.
The next detail is three quarter length sleeves. These create a similar effect that the above the knee length does. It also makes for a classier look to the outfit, therefore making it more appropriate for whatever age.
Rather than trying to always make a statement, Carole chooses to prioritise comfort and practicality with similar silhouettes such as a-line skirts, dress coats and belted ensembles.
Scott Wells is a Celebrity Stylist & Senior Style Writer. As well as styling various celebrities for red carpets and photoshoots, he is an avid Royal fashion fan and makes custom clothing designs.
