Banana Rupublic Selling “Kate” and “Pippa” Dresses

Kate and Pippa Middleton have become style stars overnight, and mass retailer Banana Republic is hoping to cash in by copying two dresses worn by the famous British sisters.

We couldn't help but notice a striking resemblance between Banana Republic's "Kate" sheath dress and the tan Reiss bandage dress Kate Middleton wore when she met Barack and Michelle Obama (see image below). Both dresses are the same color, have the same hemline, have cap sleeves, have a banded waist, and have the same two seams coming down from the neck towards the waist. For Banana Republic to name the dress "Kate" tells us they're admitting to their knockoff and hoping to please customers who admire Middleton's sleek style.

The Reiss Shola dress the Duchess wore cost $340 and immediately sold out online. The Banana Republic design is more affordable at $130 and is quickly selling out as well (only select sizes are still available). Even if you're not obsessed with Middleton's style, we think this neutral dress is a flattering office-appropriate style that could get a lot of use.

Pippa fans, don't fret. Banana Republic didn't want the royal sibling to feel left out, so they've also created a playful, Pippa-inspired dress. While the influence is less obvious, the cowl neck, cap sleeves, and Empire waist remind us of Pippa Middleton's famous Alexander McQueen maid of honor dress. (We wonder if BR's version makes your bum look great, too.)

Instead of the obvious white shade, Banana Republic's $175 silk "Pippa" dress comes in two bright shades: "future pink" and "dream date royal." We think Pippa had the royal dream date when she got to stand with Prince Harry at the royal wedding, but since we didn't score an invite we'll happily settle for these cute spring dresses.

Related links:
Kate Middleton's 10 Most Dazzling Looks
Kate Middleton sells a dress a minute
The secret behind Kate Middleton's most talked about dress