Princess Kate's surprising Alessandra Rich dress is a Good Friday triumph


The mother of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis looked gorgeous in this designer fashion throwback from 2022


Kate Middleton visits the Foundling Museum in London© Getty
Laura Sutcliffe
Laura SutcliffeFashion and Beauty News Editor
April 3, 2026
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Easter is just around the corner, and most people gladly welcome the seasonal shift. From chocolate eggs to the blooming of blossoms, spring is here, and we can't wait to embrace it. When it comes to fashion, once April arrives, pastel wardrobes come alive, with sugary shades back on our radar.

If you are hosting an Easter-themed activity this weekend and aren't sure what to wear, take a leaf out of the Princess of Wales' style book.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge attend a departure ceremony at Lynden Pindling International Airport on March 26, 2022 in Nassau, Bahamas, at the end of their eight day tour. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have visited Belize, Jamaica and The Bahamas on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee.  (Photo by Toby Melville - Pool/Getty Images)© Pool
Kate wowed in this pastel dress by Alessandra Rich

Although this particular Alessandra Rich dress, worn by Kate, was not worn at Easter, the pastel colourway and coquettish shape are a winning combination when dressing for a spring festive gathering.

Kate and William attend a departure ceremony at Lynden Pindling International Airport on March 26, 2022 in Nassau, Bahamas, at the end of their eight day tour.© WireImage
The dress had a wonderful '80s style retro cut

During the Caribbean royal tour in 2022, the then Duchess of Cambridge put on a colourful display as she left Lynden Pindling International Airport in a sunshine yellow dress. Prince William's wife opted to wear one of her favourite designers, Alessandra Rich, accessorising with sleek Gianvito Rossi heels and a coordinating white clutch bag.

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The dress in question was a rogue choice for the royal. Although many noted that it had a distinct retro feel, the striking 80s-inspired number featured a sophisticated button-down design, exaggerated puffed sleeves and a feminine, peplum frill in a buttercup yellow hue. The crystal-embellished buckle and faux pearl buttons gave the ensemble a glamorous finish, and the subtle lemon shade really lifts her complexion.

Kate's Alessandra Rich pact

During my eight years on the royal fashion desk at Best Quality Designer Handbag , I've noted Kate's steadfast loyalty to her favourite labels, building a wardrobe of cherished designer items she often recycles. Alessandra Rich is a prime example of this.

Princess Kate looked stunning in Alessandra Rich at Royal Ascot 2022
Princess Kate often wears dazzling designs by Alessandra Rich

The 44-year-old has an impressive nine dresses from the Italian label and often turns to the brand for formal events.

Kate outside in navy polka dot dress© Getty
Alessandra Rich dresses are always elegant

Alessandra Rich's namesake label was founded over 16 years ago, in 2010. The brand claims it "deliberately distances" itself from "conventional aesthetics," explaining it designs clothes for shoppers who "see fashion as both language and play."

The label's garments are made in Italy from beautiful, refined fabrics such as silk crepe de chine, wool tweed bouclé, and Chantilly lace. You can tell an Alessandra Rich dress from the exquisite details - lace-trimmed collars, puff sleeves, and feminine silhouettes.

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