Look to What Kate Middleton Wore for Holiday Party Outfit Inspiration

The royal’s recent ensembles strike just the right tone for everything from a holiday brunch to an office cocktail party. Thanks for your style service, Princess Kate!

When it comes to style, Kate Middleton knows her way around a crisp, richly coloured coat, expertly tailored frock, and floaty pussy bow blouse. Luckily for us, many of her royal style signatures are excellent outfit inspiration for the holiday season. With full social calendars that include soirées with friends, work functions and family affairs, many outfits need to be planned, am I right? The newly minted princess has been out on the town quite a bit lately, most recently landing in Boston for some appearances with Prince William and the ensembles are giving festive. Here, we look to what Kate Middleton wore to inspire holiday-ready outfits for this season’s moments of merriment.

For a festive brunch with your family

Resist the urge to roll up to mom and dad’s in a sweatsuit and opt for a festive topper over a basic outfit, à la Kate here, instead. Do her black pants have a secret elastic waist? Maybe! Is she wearing a soft bralette under a cozy black cashmere tee? Perhaps! The key here is to go for a comfortable yet polished foundation and let the coat be the star for your big arrival.

For your office cocktail party

Nothing says  “festive and fun while still being totally professional” like a classic tartan dress. For your corporate Christmas celebration, leave the sequins at home and look to Princess Kate’s green tartan Burberry dress a a guide. A traditional pattern in a modest but flattering silhouette will look pitch-perfect while toasting the executive team. Take another style cue from what Kate Middleton wore and look for a frock with an interesting detail, like the cinching at the waist on the royal’s ensemble, and don’t be afraid to add a touch of sparkle in your accessories.

For midnight mass with your S.O.’s parents

A buttoned-up polkadot dress topped with a classic camel coat feel right for a religious outing with your significant other’s parents. The semi-sheer fabric of the blouse dress gives the silhouette a bit of much-needed airiness while simple accessories, like a drop earring and quilted clutch, say “I’m pious, not boring.” Be sure to ditch the dowdy stockings, if temperature permits.

For after-work drinks with the girls

You’ll be heading straight to happy hour from the office so tonal, tailored and a tiny bit cheeky is the name of the game here. Princess Kate strikes that balance masterfully in a burgundy suit with a pink pussy bow blouse accented by a bouncy blowout and monochromatic accessories.

For an outdoor tree lighting

For an outdoor holiday event, like a Christmas tree lighting or viewing a festive light display, let your topper do the talking. If the climate allows, opt for a sumptuous belted coat, like the olive green one Kate wore here. Add a tonal sweater underneath and you’re all set. Leave the bare legs, pumps and clutch at home and go with straight leg jeans, suede boots and a crossbody bag instead.

Need a little inspiration in the festive beauty department? Look to these eight celebrities for holiday party hair looks to recreate.