When it comes to red-carpet glamour, Hollywood stars often take centre stage, but Princess Kate has repeatedly proven she can shine just as brightly. Over the years, the royal has cemented her status as a modern style icon, with standout looks that capture attention across the globe.
From her glittering gold gown at the Bond premiere to the soft lilac dress she wore in London, in 2021 for the first ever Earthshot Prize. Kate’s fashion choices have become headline-worthy moments in their own right.
But long before her rise to red-carpet royalty, another star delivered a look that remains unforgettable – Anne Hathaway.
In 2007, the 42-year-old dazzled at the Venice Film Festival following the success of The Princess Diaries and The Devil Wears Prada.
Wearing a sweeping white Alexander McQueen gown, complete with a dramatic one-shoulder bow and ethereal draping, the actress created one of her most recognised fashion moments.
Fast forward to 2019, and the Princess of Wales, 43, stepped out at the Royal Albert Hall for the 72nd British Academy Film Awards, in a near-identical McQueen creation.
With its one-shoulder silhouette, cinched waist, and romantic flowing skirt, Kate’s dress drew immediate comparisons to Hathaway’s earlier show-stopper – although hers was by Valentino.
Although the story didn’t end there. In 2023, Kate repurposed the same gown for another BAFTA appearance, this time styling it with bold black opera gloves and statement earrings.
The refreshed look gave the dress a modern twist which brought an even closer resemblance to Hathaway’s unforgettable ensemble.
While it may not have been intentional, Kate’s red-carpet moments show that even royalty can take inspiration from Hollywood without needing to overshadow it.
Her commitment to re-wearing and reinventing her gowns underscores a thoughtful, sustainable approach to high fashion, distinguishing her from the rapid turnover of celebrity style.
In doing so, she continues to define a new era of royal fashion, one that balances glamour with purpose and leaves a lasting influence well beyond the palace gates.
