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7 best pleated midi dresses if you were inspired by Princess Kate at Wimbledon


The Princess of Wales wore Self-Portrait for the Women's Singles Final


Kate Middleton pleated dress Wimbledon© Getty Images
Hollie Brotherton
Hollie BrothertonDigital Luxe & Commerce Editor
Updated: July 23, 2025
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Princess Kate stepped out at Wimbledon this summer in an elegant ensemble that's become synonymous with the 43-year-old royal.

A Self-Portrait dress designed to look like two separates styled together - sometimes referred to as a twofer dress - is possibly her most-loved and worn outfit. 

We've seen her wearing one countless times before her highly-anticipated appearance at the British sporting event. In fact, she even chose a very similar style by the brand at the 2023 Women's Final.

The dress she wore this year was a bespoke piece in a pale lemon hue, and emulates the appearance of a tailored top and pleated midi skirt.

Princess Kate looked stunning at the Wimbledon women's final© VCG via Getty Images
Princess Kate looked stunning at the Wimbledon women's final

What is a twofer dress?

A twofer dress is a garment designed to give the illusion of wearing two separate pieces - usually a top and a skirt - when it's actually a single, cohesive dress. The name 'twofer' comes from 'two-for-one,' reflecting its dual-look appeal. Typically, the bodice and skirt are made from contrasting fabrics, colours, or patterns, creating a stylish, layered effect without the bulk or hassle of coordinating separates. It offers an effortlessly chic look that’s as practical as it is polished.

Kate Middleton green dress© WireImage
The princess wore a very similar outfit by Self-Portrait in 2023

How to style a pleated dress

Channelling royal elegance with a pleated dress is all about refined structure and opulent detail. Go for luxurious fabrics like silk or satin in jewel tones or soft pastels. Cinch the waist with a belt, and elevate the look with heirloom-inspired jewellery - think pearl chokers or vintage brooches.

The best pleated dresses to shop for summer 2025

Self-Portrait Belted Pleated Chiffon Dress

Self-Portrait pleated dress

Editor's Note:

While Kate's Wimbledon dress was a bespoke piece, Self-Portrait frequently launches similar styles. This one has just dropped for the new season and features a tailored button-down black top and white pleated skirt, finished with a crystal-embellished bow waist belt. 

The Princess of Wales loves a monochrome outfit and I wouldn't be surprised to see her wearing this for a future royal engagement.

Reiss Milana Pleated Skirt Midi Dress

Reiss pleated skirt dress

Editor's Note:

If you're loving butter yellow, this is a beautiful option from Reiss. The Milana dress contours the body with stretch ribbing, gently skimming over the hips before flowing into a pleated skirt. It's cut with a trending dropped waistline, and adjustable straps for the perfect fit.

Rebecca Vallance Bailey Maxi Dress

Rebecca Vallance pleated dress

Editor's Note:

Royal-favourite Rebecca Vallance just dropped this stunning pleated dress in the Pre-Fall collection. Featuring a contrasting top with an origami neckline, delicate rouleau straps and a waist-defining belt, it's impossibly chic.

Club L London Heavenly Pleated Maxi Dress

Club L London pleated dress

Editor's Note:

Club L London's Heavenly dress begins with a tailored bodice - which features a high neckline and glossy gold buttons - and falls to a flowing, pleated skirt, for occasionwear that's both refined and glamourous.

Karen Millen Ponte & Jersey Pleated Dress

Karen Millen pleated dress

Editor's Note:

This sleek pleated Karen Millen dress is reminiscent of styles worn by Princess Kate. The fitted midi comes with a belted waist detail to create definition and can be adjusted to suit your shape. It's available in multiple colours, from white to baby blue.

ASOS ARRANGE Sculpted Maxi Dress

Arrange pleated dress

Editor's Note:

For a modern take on the look, this colourblock style from the new ASOS premium collection has a high-neck jersey top rather than something more structured. It's perfect if you prefer to look more understated than Princess Kate - but equally classy.

Hobbs Alexandra Pleated Dress

Hobbs pleated skirt dress

Editor's Note:

Hobbs' sage green pleated skirt dress is gorgeous for a wedding or christening this summer. Wear it with the matching Marta tweed jacket for true Kate Middleton style.

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