These Bold Runway Looks Have Kate Middleton's Name Written All Over Them

When Kate Middleton stepped onto the red carpet at the 100 Women in Hedge Funds dinner, our jaws dropped to the floor. Her Erdem dress made for one of the biggest style risks the duchess took in 2015 — and there's no denying it paid off. In fact, the effect it had is probably best summed up with two words: "Damn, girl."

This year, we're betting Kate, who just turned 34, plays the wild card more often. In fact, we considered the Spring '16 collections from her favorite designers and selected bright looks we hope she tries. The duchess is about to go boldly where no royal has ever gone before, judging from these outfits with intricate embroidery, fresh new color palettes, and even sheer details. Just read on for Kate's fashion future. Spoiler: outlook very good.

01
A Lacy LBD
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A Lacy LBD

In 2015: Kate started wearing Dolce & Gabbana, giving this lacy look a go.

In 2016: We challenge Kate to go bigger and bolder with her florals, turning heads in the updated version of Dolce & Gabbana's LBD.

02
A Bright-Colored Day Dress
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A Bright-Colored Day Dress

In 2015: Kate wore this turquoise pleated Emilia Wickstead dress.

In 2016: We dare her to try mustard yellow on for size, along with a longer silhouette that feels more functional and fresh.

03
An Embroidered Design
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An Embroidered Design

In 2015: Kate wore this black-and-white printed Tory Burch dress.

In 2016: We say she slip into this Burberry look, which features lacy cap sleeves and intricate embroidery. Kate's familiar with Burberry and has been known to wear the label before.

04
A Floral Gown
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A Floral Gown

In 2015: Kate shocked us all on the red carpet in this satin floral-print Erdem gown.

In 2016: We say she stick with the same color palette and designer — she totally rocked it, after all — but add even more texture and up her confidence with sheer details.

05
A Printed Three-Quarter-Sleeve Shift
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A Printed Three-Quarter-Sleeve Shift

In 2015: Kate chose this Jenny Packham shift to leave the hospital with her newborn baby, Princess Charlotte.

In 2016: We want her to wear a cropped Jenny Packham dress at an event. Only this time, her design will feature updated details, like cropped bishop sleeves and a subtle cutout.

06
A Hot-Pink Stunner
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A Hot-Pink Stunner

In 2015: Kate turned heads twice in this hot-pink Mulberry coat.

In 2016: We'd like her to try the same color via Diane von Fürstenberg, a designer she's worn before. Kate's flaunted animal print, so we think she'd take a liking to the piping on this elegant chiffon number, and we already know she can work the bold shade like a pro.

07
A Textured Mixed-Media Design
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A Textured Mixed-Media Design

In 2015: Kate showed off her style prowess by mixing navy and black in this contrasting tweed Madderson London dress.

In 2016: We suggest she turn up the shine in British label Mary Katrantzou. We already know she's got no problem playing with texture!

08
An Updated Coat
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An Updated Coat

In 2015: Kate looked lovely in a Winter white Max Mara A-line coat.

In 2016: We're into the slouchy look of this off-white Max Mara design, and we can imagine Kate adding her signature polish to the look.

09
A Regal Alexander McQueen Look
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A Regal Alexander McQueen Look

In 2015: Kate selected Alexander McQueen, one of her all-time favorite designers, for Princess Charlotte's christening.

In 2016: We want to see Kate in this regal flower-embroidered McQueen gown. With its standout details, she won't even need to complete the look with a dramatic hat.

10
A Casual Layered Look
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A Casual Layered Look

In 2015: Kate let her floral Seraphine dress peek out from beneath a powder-blue coat.

In 2016: We suggest Kate select one of her go-to labels, Orla Kiely, for a new take on the look. This slightly slouchier jacket has just the right amount of texture to contrast with a psychedelic print.

11
A Glamorous Red Carpet Dress
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A Glamorous Red Carpet Dress

In 2015: Kate stepped out at the James Bond Spectre premiere in one of the most glamorous Jenny Packham dresses we've ever seen her wear.

In 2016: We say she go lighter and lovelier in this Temperley London wrap dress, which is complete with plenty of shimmering details.