Princess Catherine is back in her favorite summer print—a style that Princess Diana established as a staple in her own wardrobe through the ’80s.
Before Kate Middleton wowed the crowds in a grass-green caped dress, lady-in-red look, and brilliant blue suit at this year’s Wimbledon tennis tournament, the royal appeared at another sporting event in a striking look. Attending Prince William’s annual charity polo match at the Guards Polo Club on Friday, July 10, she wore a black and white gingham dress by Temperley London, Ralph Lauren sunglasses, and Camilla Elphick slingbacks. (Plus, a sweet string bracelet made by Princess Charlotte.)
Gingham is the summery, feminine print that Kate returns to year-on-year when the sun comes out. While gingham might bring to mind picnic blankets or stuffy school uniforms, the princess has always kept it elegant and modern. On this occasion, the print was tempered by the sophisticated, minimalist midi shape, with wide straps, a square neckline, and a flowing skirt with tie-waist bands. Simple, coordinated accessories in creams and earthy tones also kept it sleek rather than school-girl.
Princess Diana also loved gingham-patterned looks: but took a slightly more playful approach to the print through the ’80s and ’90s. This is partly due to the smaller checks, but also to the colors in which the princess chose her gingham pieces. While on a royal trip to Nigeria, she opted for a blue-back and cream gradient gingham blouse, which she paired with a cream-colored pencil skirt and matching shoes, making the gingham pop and bring out the blue in her eyes.
