The temperature in the UK is hotting up right now, and our wardrobes are suffering. It can be hard to feel fabulous in the heat, but the Princess of Wales always keeps her cool, and some of her best looks have been spotted when the sun shines.
In 2011, not long after she had married Prince William, Kate headed to Canada for her first royal tour. Showcasing her impeccable style, she donned a glorious dress by Joseph, which fast became one of her favourites.
© AFP via Getty ImagesThe then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and Kate delighted onlookers as she disembarked their aeroplane, wearing a champagne-coloured dress by the Moroccan-born designer.
Known as 'Vanessa', the simple, fuss-free design had a modern, contemporary feel and appeared light and sleeveless. The hemline was a little shorter than normal, but the classic cut made for a timeless finish. Made from sumptuous crepe with a grosgrain trim belt, it's the type of style one could throw in their suitcase, and it would still keep its shape.
A few months later, Kate rewore the Joseph style once again to Wimbledon. Sitting next to her younger sister, Pippa Middleton, Kate added a cream tweed jacket, also by Joseph, a Diane von Furstenberg leopard-print clutch and sleek high heels.
© AFP via Getty ImagesKate's dress is a classic choice due to the simple shape and neutral colourway. Humble neutral tones are always a safe bet; shades like cream, tan, and various shades of brown will never leave our radar because they are cemented in the 'quiet luxury' trend, which has an everlasting, timeless connotation.
© PA Images via Getty ImagesA sleeveless style is perfect for the heatwave, as it helps the breeze pass directly through the exposed armholes, allowing for optimal airflow and natural cooling in humid weather.
Kate's 2026 heatwave dress
Earlier this month, mother-of-three Kate made her return to the polo after a three-year hiatus, cheering on her husband, Prince William, at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor.
The royal donned a new dress for the occasion: a new, sleeveless style by Temperley London. Known as the 'Stirling' dress, it was crafted in a vest-style shape and featured a full skirt. Cut from a black-and-white gingham jacquard, it made a striking style statement. The always-timeless gingham print is reintroduced every summer, as it's traditionally made from breathable fabrics like cotton, which are ideal for keeping cool in a heatwave.
