Go From Casual Mom to Dressed Like a Duchess in Five Easy Steps

This post was written by Sarah Fernandez. Photo Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for British Consul-General-Los-Angeles

It's no secret that Kate Middleton is the world's newest style icon and it appears she's in it for the long haul with nary a mis-step. Women across the world are flocking to web sites and stores to snatch up every dress she dons and you'd be hard pressed to find one available. While Middleton's outfits are often off the rack and relatively affordable (at least for royalty or a celebrity), they are still a little too far out of my budget and considering that they are pretty much all sold out, it doesn't really matter. But that doesn't mean that you and I still can't get the same look by following Middleton's fashion rules.

1. Monotones

While Middleton doesn't shy away from color, she mostly chooses items that are a single color and often in jewel tones. This look is easier to achieve by wearing dresses as they tend to be the same fabric throughout, but even when she's in designer denim she tends to choose dark colors and pair them with a navy blazer. When she does pair two colors, the second color is typically black, navy or beige, which all create no-fail combos. She steers away from a lot of patterns unless they are small and in these neutral combos.

2. Little Details

Even though Middleton leans towards monotones, there are also always simple details in the designs she wears from a gathering at the waist to a deep v in the front or buttons on the cuffs. She also knows how to not go overboard and makes sure there isn't too much going on with the details. They are typically relegated to the waist, the neckline, the cuff, or the hem, but are never in all of those places on one piece.

3. Simple Accessories

While we may not all have the royal jewels to choose from, we can still follow Middleton's lead when it comes to wearing jewelry. She almost always has on a pair of simple drop earrings and a thin bracelet on her right wrist (so as not to compete with that rock on her left ring finger!), but she occasionally dons a simple necklace with a pendant. And on the occasion when her dress is super simple, she'll add a lovely brooch for some added interest. When it comes to jewelry, keep it simple if you want the look of Middleton.

4. Neutral Shoes

Middleton may be single-handedly bringing back nude pumps. Neutral shoes that can be paired with multiple outfits save you money and make it easy to run out the door without having to debate which pair to wear. She is almost always spotted in heels and that certainly makes those gams looks extra fabulous. They may not be so convenient for us moms on an everyday basis but you can try a wedge heel for the same look in a more comfortable feel. Her alternative is a simple flat or a knee high boot in the fall or winter. In addition to nude (or I like gold), you'll want a go-to black, navy and brown pair of shoes.

5. Perfect Fit

Most of us fall victim to buying off the rack and wearing off the rack whether it's a perfect fit or not. Middleton's clothes fit her impeccably. Granted she has a rockin' body, and unfortunately, I can't help you with that (well, maybe I can a little), but there is no doubt in my mind that she takes everything she buys straight to the tailor to make sure they are the perfect length, shape, etc.

If you've always wanted to look like a princess you can and without the big budget. Just follow Middleton's lead with these five easy steps. We'll leave finding Prince Charming up to you.

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