The last time Kate Middleton wore this gray Orla Kiely dress was three years ago [1]. But the duchess proved that her well-tailored design is a classic, working it once again [2] with the exact same accessories to support charity Chance UK [3] at Islington Town Hall.
Featuring black floral appliqué at the neckline, a pleated skirt, and a dainty bow at the waist, Kate's knee-length number is memorable, versatile for any occasion, and completely demure. In short, it makes for the easy throw-on-and-go outfit every girl needs in her closet — especially during Fall, when
transitional dressing [4] can get tricky.
Read on to see how Kate's Orla Kiely design made its debut in 2012, then see how she refreshed it the second time around, switching out a delicate bracelet for a chunky silver watch. And since there's no arguing you'll need to shop for a look just like this one, we rounded up polished dresses with all the details Duchess Kate would totally approve of [5]. Feel free to keep them in steady rotation!
Kate wearing her gray Orla Kiely dress in 2012, accessorized with black pumps, a simple clutch, a dainty diamond bracelet, and her sapphire engagement ring.
This time around, Kate swapped out her bracelet for a chunky silver watch.
Kate wore the same pearl earrings she did back in 2012 — and she held onto the same clutch!
Kate completed her sophisticated look with black functional pumps.
Orla Kiely Ballroom Dancing Midi Dress [6] ($442)
Orla Kiely Knee-Length Dress [7] ($581)
Sea Combo Lace Dress [8] ($345)
Lela Rose Floral Jacquard Half-Sleeve Dress [9] ($1,995)
Dolce & Gabbana Herringbone Lace Dress [10] ($2,595)
Label by 5twelve Three-Quarter-Sleeve Knit Jacquard Dress [11] ($89)
Neiman Marcus Floral-Print Sweater Dress [12] ($65)
J.W.Anderson Mock Neck Floral Jersey Skater Dress [13] ($1,385)