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Kate Middleton rocks retro blazer and chic hair change for new appearance

She joined a video call with Prince William

kate in blazer
Fiona Ward
Acting Fashion and Beauty Editor
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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge appeared for their first joint engagement of 2021 on Friday evening, with Kate looking beautiful in her monochrome Smythe blazer.

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Looking elegant as ever, the royal chose to sweep her hair back into a classic style, too, marking a change to the loose curls she has been rocking lately.

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Kate's contrast collar blazer is one of her favourite Smythe styles, which she wore during an engagement in Essex in 2018. She owns a number of tailored jackets from the brand, and we reckon we'll see her wearing them for years to come.

READ MORE: Kate Middleton embracing life in lockdown with George, Charlotte and Louis

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Kate could be seen wearing a beautiful blazer 

In the past, the chic cover-up has been compared to a very similar style that her late mother-in-law Princess Diana wore in 1984. Her version was in fact a fuller-length coat, and she wore it twice that year with a chic monochrome outfit.

kate middleton

Kate's chic blazer is one of her favourite Smythe styles

We can still see the similarities, however, and Diana often wore contrast collar looks just like Kate's favourite styles.

In more modern times, Princess Eugenie has also been spotted sporting a similar look, in a gingham-checked jacket with the same contrast black lapel.

princess diana contrast blazer

Kate's look has been compared to Princess Diana's in the past 

And if you want to shop the royal look, Boohoo stocks a very similar option at just £19 - but sizes are selling fast.

Kate and William's latest appearance saw them speak with frontline workers and counsellors about the mental health impact of the COVID-19 crisis for those working on the frontline.

boohoo blazer

Contrast Collar Check Fitted Blazer, £19, Boohoo

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The royal couple heard about the crucial mental health support being provided for frontline workers during the pandemic by Hospice UK’s Just 'B' counselling and bereavement support line.

Prince William said: "This is an unprecedented time we are all facing. I think that really needs to be nailed home right now is that this is like nothing before that anyone has ever seen, particularly this third wave we are going through right now.

princess euegnie jacket

Princess Eugenie has worn a similar style in the past

"People need to understand how you are normal human beings doing a brilliant job in a very, very difficult time and I hope this service gives people the outlet that they need."

RELATED: Kate Middleton's sweet reason for carrying her bag in her left hand

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