Fashion seems to be a cherished family trait among the Middletons, particularly influenced by their matriarch, Carole Middleton. Known for her timeless elegance and practical approach, Carole has built a reputation as the quiet style force behind her daughters Kate and Pippa, as well as her daughter-in-law Alizée Thevenet. This dynamic was recently put on display during day two of Royal Ascot, where Carole and Alizée bonded over a shared pastel wardrobe and a borrowed hat from Carole’s closet.

On this occasion, Alizée, wife of James Middleton, appeared in a mint green gingham Longchamp maxi dress, topped off with a silver Juliette Botterill feathered hat that had previously been worn by Carole at the christening of Prince Louis. The hat was a standout piece, emblematic of the Mother-Daughter-in-law duo’s shared fashion staples. This was not the first instance of wardrobe sharing: Alizée notably wore Carole’s wedding dress from 1980 for her own wedding to James Middleton in September 2021. She discovered the dress during lockdown, tried it on, and felt it was an ideal fit, describing it as a way to give the dress a “second lease of life” — a sentiment that emphasises sustainability and emotional connection in fashion choices.

This practice of recycling and sharing pieces is a hallmark of the Middleton women. Kate and Pippa Middleton have also been spotted repeatedly in outfits from their mother’s wardrobe, as well as each other’s, showcasing a shared fashion philosophy that prioritises quality, timelessness, and reusability. Carole’s style is characterised by her preference for classic British designers, well-tailored blazers, natural tones, and structured silhouettes, many of which would still be considered stylish on the high street today. Despite her status as the family’s style icon, she remains elegantly understated and never overshadows her daughters or daughter-in-law, earning the description of a “silent icon in the background.”

Carole’s influence extends beyond just aesthetics, fostering a strong sense of family ties and practical elegance. The ongoing use and re-use of her wardrobe pieces breathes new life into classic fashion, blending nostalgia with modern sensibilities. This approach represents a subtle yet poignant commentary on sustainable fashion, where cherished garments transcend generations rather than being worn once and forgotten. The Middletons collectively underscore the value of investing in enduring garments, proving that style need not be ephemeral but can be inherited and treasured.

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Source: Noah Wire Services