When her elder sister became engaged to a Prince, Pippa Middleton was rocketed into stardom, her role as maid of honour at the wedding of the century highly publicised.

But the striking brunette had previously been recognised in the social world. In 2008, she was named Tatler magazine's 'Number 1 Society Singleton'.

Her top spot on the most eligible list was partly due to Pippa's constant presence on the London social scene and her job at entertainment company Table Talk.

And she racks up more column inches as the younger sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

Indeed commentators argued that she was the more fortunate sister, with access to all the best designers and parties - but without the scrutiny.

Born September 6, 1983, Philippa was the middle of Michael and Carole Middleton's three children.

Like her sister she attended the prestigious Malborough College, before also following Kate to higher education in Scotland, with an English degree at Edinburgh University.

As self-possessed and alluring as William's wife, Pippa has formed many of her own royal relationships.

During her student days, her housemates were George Percy, the oldest son of the Duke of Northumberland, and Lord Ted Innes-Ker, the second son of the Duke of Roxburghe.

And a former flame, Alexander Spencer-Churchill, is a distant relative of the late Princess Diana.

By 2010 she was reported to be dating the city trader and former England cricketer Alex Loudon.

Pippa also serves as an ambassador for Too Many Women, which raises money for breast cancer research.

She put her party planning skills to good use by throwing a Spanish-themed party in aid of the cause in 2010, raising $7, 500.

"It was very simple: We had about 95 people and really good music," she told The Sunday Times.

"I was going for quite cool Ibiza chic, and a lot of good dancing."

As maid of honour at the royal wedding, Pippa demonstrated her enviable poise and showing off a stunning figure that won her admiration around the globe.