Attending a reception at St. James’s Palace in London to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Cancer Research UK on 2 June, The Princess of Wales stepped out in a Rodarte dress, marking her first appearance in the designer.
Joining King Charles (who is patron of the charity) and Queen Camilla, Kate met researchers, doctors, and volunteers who are involved in the charity’s prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
For the meaningful event held in the Throne Room of the palace, the princess wore a red Rodarte midi dress with a delicate white heart polka dot print. Made from 100 per cent silk, the dress pays homage to the designer’s penchant for romantic aesthetics, while details like the belted waist, puff sleeves and a contrasting collar earn the frock an event appeal. Kate accessorised with cherry red suede Gianvito Rossi heels (£695, Gianvitorossi.com), a ruby pendant necklace and a Miu Miu clutch.
While the California label sells the dress for £1,785 (Mytheresa.com) we’ve spotted these high street alternatives that exude the same vintage daintiness.
Read more: Kate Middleton just wore a suit in this season’s most popular colour
Nobody's Child Lina cap sleeve v-neck floaty midi dress in red polka dot
With ruffled cap sleeves and a subtle V-neck, this red polka-dot dress from Nobody's Child exudes the same elevated delicateness of Kate’s dress. Effortlessly flattering, there’s a stretch panel on the back which draws in the figure, while the seam on the bodice elongates the look.
Buy now £69, Asos.com
Dorothy Perkins spot button through flutter sleeve midi dress
If you prefer a more neutral colourway, this V-neck dress from Dorothy Perkins is reminiscent of Kate’s Rodarte dress. It features fluttering sleeves and button-through front, which allows for personalised styling.
Buy now £35.1, Karenmillen.com
Finery London Sylvie polka dot midi dress
If you prefer a round-neck this floaty dress from Finery London hits the mark. It features ruffled short sleeves and hem, while the subtle definition at the waist gives it a delicate drape.
Buy now £49, Karenmillen.com
Finery London polka dot V-neck midi tea dress
A great alternative to the Rodarte frock, the Finery London polka dot V-neck midi tea dress is body contouring with a modest V-neckline and front bodice buttons.
Buy now £45, Marksandspencer.com
Nobody's Child pink puff sleeve zola midi dress
Bringing some drama from its puffed sleeves, this midi dress from Nobody Child is occasion ready. The A-line shape is complimented by the open bow-tie back, while the cherry pink colourway feels fitting for summer
Buy now £135, Nobodyschild.com
Reformation naira dress
The classic daintiness of the Reformation naira dress cannot be understated. With features similar to The Princess of Wales’s look (a v-neckline, puffed sleeves, and ruching at the bust), the silhouette feels very Kate-esque.
Buy now £278, Thereformation.com
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