Duchess of Cambridge channels Princess Diana in polka dots at Royal Ascot
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The Duchess of Cambridge has arrived at Royal Ascot for the fifth and final day of the annual Berkshire racing event on Friday, wearing a look very similar to one made famous by her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, decades ago.
Kate, 40, delighted fans at the horse racing event today in a polka dot dress very similar to Diana's iconic Victor Edelstein dress.
Despite the soaring UK temperatures, Kate wore a modern version of Diana's monochrome dress complete with a high-neck cut and long-sleeves.
Read more: Royal Ascot 2022 dress code more daring than ever with mini skirts and cuban shirts
The Alessandra Rich dress also featured a matching belt and pleated detailing on the left shoulder. A black raffia hat embellished with white flowers and brown suede Ralph Lauren heels finished the ensemble.
Diana famously wore her version of the black and white number by the British couturier Victor Edelstein to the Derby Day at Epsom Racecourse in 1986.
The late Lady Spencer paired the frock with a coordinating spotted Frederick Fox hat for the occasion.
Read more: Royal Ascot relaxes strict dress code for first time as temperatures soar
Diana rewore the iconic monochrome look when she stepped out at the polo in Windsor a year later wearing the Victor Edelstein look in 1987, having tailored the dress to have the frill at the waist removed.
Ever the avid rewearer, the look was cemented in the style books when Diana rewore the tailored version of the dress the following year at Royal Ascot in 1988.
Read more: Royal Ascot relaxes strict dress code for first time as temperatures soar
The Duchess of Cambridge made an additional subtle tribute to her late mother-in-law with her choice of jewellery.
The royal chose Diana's favourite pair of South Sea pearl and diamond earrings for the occasion. Kate, who has worn them to a number of previous public appearances, changed the pearls more of a drop-shaped pearl to make them her own.
Read more: Every time the Duchess of Cambridge and Sussex subtly honoured Princess Diana
The duchess joined her husband Prince William for the annual horse racing event to watch the Queen's horses.
A number of other Royal Family members, including Zara Tindall, Princess Beatrice and the Countess of Wessex, have attended the prestigious event - which has long been attended by royals - over the past week, but today marks the first appearance the mum-of-three has been spotted at the 2022 edition.
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Hobbs Polka Dot Round Neck Midi Waisted Dress | £179 from M&S
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