Princess Kate’s Radiant Remembrance Day Style: A Look Back at Her Sleek Coat Dresses

Princess Kate‘s love of a classic “BLD” (that’s a “Black Lace Dress”) became clear over the weekend, but we couldn’t help focusing our sartorial gaze onto another aspect of her ever-growing closet— the formal dark coat. Judging by her elegant choices over the years, the royal mom of two, 33, has mastered her regal look for one of the most somber events of the year: the Day of Rememberance.

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At Sunday’s ceremony to honor the British soldiers killed since World War One to the present day, Kate marked the serious occasion in a stylish, yet understated way, choosing a bespoke Alexander McQueen double-breasted coat with velvet lapels and patchwork detailing. The wide lapels, nipped-in waist and structured shoulders are go-to details for Kate, but it was the first time she has commissioned a coat for the annual ceremony.

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Last year (below left), she opted for a similar off-the-rack wool coat from Alexander McQueen in a fit-and-flare design with a Jane Corbett hat. In 2013 (below right), she chose a navy button-up coat with satin quilting from Temperley London.

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In both 2012 and 2011 (below), she wore the same Diane von Furstenberg wool coat with an embellished collar.

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Of course, fashion notes aside, the only accessory of any importance are the poppy pins she wears each year, which are a symbol of remembrance for those who have lost their lives in war. We salute you, Kate!

–Monique Jessen