The Princess of Wales showcased a masterclass in elegant, tonal dressing as she attended the traditional Christmas Day service at Sandringham with the Royal Family. Greeting well-wishers under crisp winter skies, Kate Middleton's head-to-toe chocolate brown outfit provided a decadent and sophisticated festive look.
A Carefully Curated Italian Ensemble
Her focal point was a distinctive windowpane check coat by the Italian brand Blazé Milano. While the bespoke piece was not new – having been worn on four previous public occasions, including the 2021 Sandringham service – fresh accessories revitalised the look. The coat's rich, chocolate hue was deliberately sumptuous, evoking premium chocolatier Charbonnel et Walker rather than everyday confectionery.
Complementing the coat was a skirt from Gucci's 2019 resort collection, which cleverly echoed the coat's checked pattern. Completing a trio of Italian fashion houses were her trusted bespoke Gianvito Rossi boots, a favourite in the Princess's wardrobe.
British Brands and Sentimental Touches
Despite the Italian influences, Kate proudly supported British designers through key accessories. She carried her reliable £415 DeMellier London bag and wore £135 Cornelia James gloves. A particularly sentimental item was her £125 Really Wild scarf, first worn to Sandringham over a decade ago.
The only entirely new item was her hat: a £650 design by Shrewsbury milliner Juliette Botterill, featuring delicate felt lace cutouts. This addition provided the perfect finishing touch to her cohesive aesthetic.
Family Twinning and Royal Style Statements
Princess Charlotte, aged ten, beautifully complemented her mother's outfit in a caramel-coloured coat. The piece is believed to be a bespoke, mini-me version of a Catherine Walker design frequently worn by Kate.
Other royals also embraced checked patterns and statement pieces. Princess Beatrice selected a £950 wool trench coat from New York brand Cara Cara, paired with a £2,990 Loro Piana bag and a £1,600 Emily London pillbox hat. Princess Eugenie coordinated with her sister, wearing an £810 hat from the same milliner and a £370 checked cape coat by Spanish label Byan Concept.
The Duchess of Edinburgh opted for British design with a £1,990 houndstooth tweed coat by Suzannah, with a matching hat by Jane Taylor. Queen Camilla made a vibrant statement in a striking red coat by British designer Fiona Clare, a Philip Treacy hat, and a brooch that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
The annual Christmas walkabout at Sandringham once again served as a significant moment for royal fashion diplomacy, blending high-end international design with steadfast support for British brands and cherished wardrobe repeats that resonate with the public.
