There's one designer Kate Middleton comes back to more than others: the British clothing brand Emilia Wickstead, and over the weekend at Wimbledon, she was spotted in a bespoke green dress from the brand. However, it's not only favoured by Royalty. Known for its feminine, sophisticated designs, the brand has also been worn by a list of A-listers, including Gillian Anderson, Alexa Chung and Emma Stone.
The luxury womenswear label Emilia Wickstead was founded in London by the New Zealand designer in 2008, and since then, it has become a household name and regularly showcases new collections during London Fashion Week. Her designs combine modern, sculptural cuts with timeless colours and beautiful, feminine prints.
From refined floral summer wedding guest dresses to versatile frocks that work if you're wondering what to wear to the races or heading to a smart work event, Emilia Wickstead is full of enduring pieces. However, with prices reaching well into the thousands, it isn't a label in everyone's budget. I've rounded up several dresses that capture Emilia Wickstead's aesthetic, but with much more accessible price points. You're welcome.
At Wimbledon over the weekend, Kate Middleton wore an elegant bespoke green dress by Emilia Wickstead, and this beautiful find from Phase Eight captures the same sophisticated feel. Its gently ruffled sleeves and wrap front add to its appeal.
ME+EM have plenty of dresses featuring a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette, which is quite a signature of the Wickstead brand, including this beautiful maxi style. The coral colour is perfect for warmer weather, and the crease-less linen means that you can pack it in your suitcase with ease.
Channelling some of the pretty floral designs by Emilia Wickstead, this beautiful dress feels feminine and perfect for summer occasions. Simply style with some wedge espadrilles and a neutral clutch, and you are good to go. It's also worth browsing our Phase Eight sale favourites for more finds.
Made from a butter yellow linen, this dress is extremely versatile, working for warm days out as well as smarter events. It has a flattering tie at the back that subtly defines the waist, too.
Extremely elegant, this floral dress is made from matte-finish silk and features delicate lace trims. And if you're wondering what to wear to a wedding, this dress should be a top contender.
From garden parties to outdoor nuptials, this floral dress will carry you through event season in style. The short puff sleeves offer a subtle amount of coverage, whilst the silhouette is designed to sculpt your waist.
If you want to emulate Emilia Wickstead's refined aesthetic without investing in a designer piece, it's worth paying close attention to silhouettes, colours and fabrics. Several brands come to mind when trying to capture similar occasion-ready looks, including Hobbs, ME+EM and Phase Eight.
Look for beautiful midi dresses that have flattering silhouettes, including defined waists, full skirts and elegant necklines, as well as styles made from structured cotton, crepe or woven fabrics that hold their shape.
In recent months, it hasn't just been Kate Middleton championing Emilia Wickstead's elegant designs, but also the Duchess of Edinburgh has worn a pastel blue coat dress for a military parade from the brand. Whilst Sophie Hunter, Benedict Cumberbatch's wife, chose a striking green floral dress for a day at Wimbledon.
Our Royal Editor Emma Shacklock says, "The brands that the Princess of Wales returns to time and time again tend to be British-based and focused on timeless designs. Emilia Wickstead ticks these boxes, and I’ve lost count of how many occasions Kate has worn their pieces, and there’s even now an Emilia Wickstead dress named the ‘Kate’ in her honour. The items from them she loves are usually very classic, with a modest, formal feel. This isn’t always easy to find on the high-street and the Princess has a few patterned designs, but otherwise sticks to pops of plain colour with plenty of structure"
