The Classic Way Kate Middleton: When Kate Middleton takes pictures for the much-awaited royal Christmas card, which is typically distributed in mid-December every year, it appears that she has a go-to outfit. No, it’s not a dressy, cherry-red gown that exudes Christmas spirit, nor is it a perfectly festive plaid midi skirt and turtleneck combination. Even though she has previously worn these outfits—and for holiday events, at that—every year when the Christmas card is released, she always looks considerably more subdued. Actually, I adore it, Kate.
It’s a huge compliment that Middleton and her family appeared to be posing for a J. Crew Christmas card advertisement. The atmosphere was laid-back and relatable, and as we all know, Christmas cards can easily cross the line into boasting about all of your accomplishments throughout the year. That was not this. Let’s face it, all of the royal family members wore pants! Prince William and Prince George chose slightly more traditional pants, while Middleton, who has worn jeans in previous Christmas cards, went with the casual look. But the lone link in common? Clean white button-downs that were both dressy and laid-back.
Table of Contents
ToggleClassic Way Kate Middleton
Purchase White Button-down Shirts with a Kate Middleton Influence
$59 for a Nordstrom Classic Poplin Shirt
$35 (was $80) for a J. Crew Slim-Fit Stretch Cotton Poplin Shirt
The $51 (was $85) Madewell Signature Poplin Oversized Button-Up Shirt
The Relaxed Oxford Shirt by Everlane costs $88.
Reorganization Andy $128 for an oversized shirt
Bond & Treasure Dobby Traditional Tee, $59.
Easy Shirt by Alex Mill, $130
Frank and Eileen $248 for the Eileen Linen Button-Up Shirt
The Classic Collection
Every wardrobe needs a white button-down shirt. If you were unsure about how well it could look, even styled simply, I would like to point you in the direction of the aforementioned royal shot. I’m sure Middleton was wearing narrow pants because she tucked her elegant poplin top into them. She has previously favored the denim look, particularly for official royal portraits like this one. She wore the top buttons unbuttoned for an even more carefree vibe, and a sleek black belt—something you should always have on hand—completed the ensemble.
She has a stylish appearance! She has a vintage appearance! She has style! And to be really honest, it’s all down to the natural adaptability of the white button-down. It can be anything you want it to be. Think of it as a blank canvas that you may use to create a sophisticated and understated look, like the Princess of Wales, or a sultry fashion moment, like Jennifer Lopez’s recent holiday ensemble.
In addition to being worn on red carpets and being a (no-brainer) office staple for years to come, the white button-down is fast becoming a fashion-girl essential, especially in an oversized version that looks more like you just woke up and stole it from your boyfriend than a once-stuffy office top that’s pure business.
Investing in a white button-down is a wise choice as it can be worn with many outfits, such as jeans or a flowing silk skirt, adding sophistication to any ensemble.