Princess Catherine stepped out in London last month for a visit to the Anna Freud Centre, debuting a head-turning take on seasonal dressing in a bespoke houndstooth Emilia Wickstead midi. The royal chose a long-sleeved, belted silhouette that struck the perfect balance between structure and softness, paired with muted accessories and her signature neutral glam. 

It was a look that instantly commanded attention, fashion stylist Ciara Russell said as she sat down with the Express. “Houndstooth just gives that instant winter in London energy,” she said. “It’s classic, it’s a bit heritage, and it always looks expensive.”

Catherine’s dress played into one of the strongest style codes she’s refined over the last few years: a silhouette that communicates confidence and approachability in equal measure. 

“This is where she really gets it right,” Ciara says. “The sharp collar and shoulders give that quiet confidence, but the soft, fluid skirt keeps everything feminine. It’s strong but still graceful, which is exactly her lane. Catherine always manages to look powerful without losing that softness, and this outfit really shows that.”

In keeping with her modern royal wardrobe, Catherine opted for accessories that didn’t distract. She stepped out in grey Boss heels, her Small Hudson bag by DeMellier, and delicate sapphire drop earrings. 

According to Ciara, this is one of the Princess’s most intentional styling strategies. “Understated accessories are honestly one of the biggest style secrets. When everything is clean and minimal, simple heels, tiny jewellery – it lets the actual outfit shine,” she notes. 

“It also gives off this really modern, effortless royal vibe. Like, she doesn’t need to add loads to make a statement. The simplicity is the statement.”

And for those eager to emulate the aesthetic without the designer price tag, Ciara insists it’s absolutely achievable. 

“You can recreate this look so easily without going high-end. All you really need is a checked or houndstooth midi, a belt to cinch the waist, a simple court heel or sleek boot, and delicate jewellery,” she says. “Hair soft and natural, makeup neutral. It’s the shape and the simplicity that make it look luxe, not the price tag.”

Her final advice for readers hoping to channel Catherine’s understated autumn elegance is just as approachable: choose one classic print, go for a midi with movement, keep tones cool and refined, and let the outfit speak for itself. As Ciara puts it, “Don’t overcomplicate it – the elegance comes from the simplicity.”