Princess Kate just nailed the 'naked dress' trend in her own classy way


Prince William's wife looked incredible at the State Banquet alongside Donald Trump, wowing fans in a gold dress, designed by Phillipa Lepley


Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, wearing a tiara departs after attending the annual Diplomatic Reception at Buckingham Palace on December 8, 2016 in London, England. © Getty Images
Laura SutcliffeFashion and Beauty News Editor
Updated: September 19, 2025
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The Princess of Wales was the ultimate golden girl on Wednesday evening at the State Banquet, which saw King Charles and Queen Camilla host American President Donald Trump and his wife, First Lady Melania. Kate's glorious new, bespoke dress by Phillipa Lepley was nothing short of breathtaking. Known as the 'Darling', it had a hand-embroidered gold chantilly lace detail, in an almost coat-like feature, which cascaded over the top of an ivory silk crepe skirt. The floor-skimming number also featured sheer lace sleeves and a high-collared neckline.

 Fashion fans noticed that the neckline and arms delicately featured exquisite embroidery, leaving her flesh in these areas lightly exposed, but covered artfully and perfectly with the lace. Sublime! It made us think that perhaps this is Kate's own way of adhering to the 'naked dress' trend, which is big news on the red carpet of late.

© POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Kate looked stunning in her Phillipa Lepley gown

Now, hear us out! Of course, Kate's dress is beautifully designed and respectful.

 But, by showing a little bit of skin, with strategically placed detail, the mother-of-three is taking on the trend, but in a more subtle way.

© POOL/AFP via Getty Images

The arm's of Kate's dress were 'bare' but covered with lace

What is the 'naked dress'?

The 'Naked dress' gives the illusion of bare skin with panelling, transparent fabric or tasteful touches of detail such as appliqués or lace.

A 'naked' dress uses lace, applique and embellishments to cover the skin

Megan Watkins, Head Stylist at SilkFred, told HELLO!: "The naked dress trend has exploded again because it captures that perfect balance of daring and chic. It's a way for stars to look both powerful and playful at the same time."

© Getty

Nicole Kidman in a naked style dress in 2017

The style professional added: "The best versions use sheer fabrics, embellishments, or strategic layering so you get drama without looking like you've just stepped out in lingerie."

© Getty Images

Margot wowed in her naked dress by Armani Prive

Margot Robbie's 'naked dress' moment

Last week, Hollywood A-lister Margot Robbie made jaws drop at the premiere of A Big Bold Beautiful Journey in London, wearing an Armani Prive gown with spaghetti straps, covered in patterned jewels over a light sheer fabric.

© Samir Hussein/WireImage

Margot's dress went viral

The 35-year-old, who welcomed her first child last October with producer husband Tom Ackerley, was a total vision in the crystal-encrusted gown which was a contemporary take on couture dressing.

© Getty Images

Florence wowed in this sheer cream gown

Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh looked breathtaking at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party earlier this year. The 29-year-old wore an impeccable sheer gown by Simone Rocha from her Haute Couture collection with Jean Paul Gaultier.

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