Today, we delve into a selection of evening dresses recommended by our readers for our One-Hit Wonder feature, alongside a review of three unique coats that have captured the attention of many for their standout reappearances.
Our journey starts with the Duchess of Cambridge’s choice of an Amanda Wakeley gown from the designer’s Autumn/Winter 2006 collection, which she wore in October 2011 at a quaint dinner hosted at Clarence House. This event, organized by In Kind Direct, aimed to redistribute surplus goods to charities, was a fill-in appearance for Prince Charles, who was away in Saudi Arabia due to the passing of the Crown Prince there.
The gown, a draped creation in soft aqua, featured a sparkling trim at the waist and shoulder straps, subtly modified from its runway version to elevate the waistline for a more flattering fit.
Accessorizing her look, the Duchess opted for a diamond bracelet and earrings set, thought to be a wedding gift, and paired these with her elegant ‘Vamp’ heels from Jimmy Choo.
Another gown that has been frequently mentioned is the silver-grey, one-shoulder dress by Jenny Packham, worn during a fundraiser in November 2011. This Grecian-style dress, crafted from silvery chiffon and satin, was showcased at an event hosted by the Duke and Duchess at St. James’s Palace.
Our third highlight is a Gucci gown worn by the Duchess at a 100 Women in Finance gala dinner in February 2019. This exquisite piece featured a crisscrossed deep V-neck bodice in shades of pale pink and mauve, complemented by a flowing skirt made of pleated tulle with a chiffon overlay, all cinched at the waist with a velvet band.
Additionally, we explore three remarkable coats, starting with the Holland Cooper trench coat worn by the Duchess during an outdoor movie screening at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This event, held in May 2021, was a special thank-you to NHS staff for their relentless efforts during the pandemic. The coat, crafted in Heather Tartan, stood out magnificently against the vibrant backdrop.
Another notable mention is the Christopher Kane ensemble worn during a visit to Dundee in October 2015. This outfit featured a knee-length coat and skirt in a striking blue houndstooth pattern, paired with a black turtleneck sweater.
Lastly, we revisit the vibrant red and coral Jonathan Saunders coat worn during a May 2014 visit to Scotland. This coat, from the designer’s Autumn/Winter 2013 collection, was made from a jacquard weave of wool and mohair, featuring a notch collar and a single breast pocket.
These pieces not only highlight the Duchess’s impeccable style but also her ability to gracefully carry both contemporary and classic designs, making each appearance uniquely memorable.
