Kate Middleton 'Wanted To Pay Homage' To Princess Diana At 'James Bond' Premiere

Oct 08, 2021 by apost team

The public has seen the Duchess of Cambridge mature into the woman she is today — from her early 20s as a student and the beginning of her romance with William to more recent occasions in which she's become one of the most prominent working royals. Known for being poised and classy at all times, she constantly showcases her beauty and grace with everything from her impeccable sense of style to her smart mannerisms and attitude. It's no surprise that she's become a true style icon of the modern age as well as a dearly loved member of the royal family.

One of the comparisons that are often drawn between her and Princess Diana is that the two royals are both style icons in their own right. Diana's trendy but also understated looks –– beginning in the 1980s, and continuing until her untimely death in 1997 –– are still considered iconic today. 

And while Middleton is well known for her own unique style, it's wonderful to see that at times she pays homage to Diana's style, sometimes even wearing similar looks for the same occasions Diana wore the same thing for. 

That was the case for the recent world premiere of the latest Bond movie, "No Time to Die," which took place on Sep. 28. Middleton arrived alongside Prince William, exuding elegance and glamour, while Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla were also in attendance. 

Similarities between Middleton's dress and one that Diana wore in 1985 were immediately drawn, and now it's been confirmed that the duchess did so intentionally in homage to her late mother-in-law.

For the movie premiere event, the showstopper was most certainly Middleton's dazzling Jenny Packham gown which was embellished with sheer panels and gold sequin detailing, while she accessorized with circular gold earrings by O’nitaa and nude heels by Aquazzura, according to Vanity Fair. Jenny Packham is a British designer who is a longtime favorite of Middleton's, and she is often seen wearing the brand’s cocktail dresses for daytime events.

According to PEOPLE, reigning Bond Daniel Craig was even impressed by the duchess's outfit and told her, "You look jolly lovely." Making headlines around the world, Middleton's gilded gown instantly drew comparisons to a look that Diana wore in 1985 to another Bond premiere, "A View to a Kill." Diana's gown was designed by Bruce Oldfield and also featured a V-neckline, cinched waist and statement shoulders, while the fabric was a gorgeous shimmery metallic color. 

As it turns out, one royal insider opened up to Us Weekly, confirming that Middleton's choice of dress was no accident as it was intended to pay homage to her incredibly stylish mother-in-law. The source told the publication that "Kate had her own Bond girl moment" at the premiere, as "she oozed confidence and old school Hollywood glamor." He added:

"William was in awe of Kate as she led the way down the red carpet, interacting with fans and Charles and Camilla – giving a sense of unity and showing the world that the royal family is still thriving.

"She dazzled in the Jenny Packham gown and made front page news and headlines all over the world because every one was talking about how amazing she looked.”

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With how often Middleton references Diana's style, it's no surprise to learn that she was a fan of her taste in fashion long before she became a royal herself. The insider told Us Weekly:

“Kate admired Diana’s taste in fashion before William came into her life. During her school days she’d tell friends that Diana was her style icon."

But while the duchess has a strong focus on style and what she wears, he makes it clear that "it would be wrong to say that Kate is trying [to] top Diana as the royal family's best dressed." He goes on:

"A more accurate description is that she is taking inspiration from the late Princess and wanted to pay homage to [her] on the night of the No Time to Die premiere by channeling the dress Diana wore at the View To A Kill premiere.”

Clearly, her reference made the impact it was meant to, as fans the world over were enamored with Middleton's gown that night. Well known for her unique style and influence, where garments she is photographed wearing sell out instantly — a phenomenon that has been dubbed the "Kate Effect" —  it wouldn't be unlikely to think that she will have started a trend for metallic v-neck dresses after this. 

Ever the stylish trendsetter, Middleton always puts her best foot forward when stepping out, and she has proven this since the early days of her relationship with Prince William. However, ever since their iconic wedding 10 years ago, the duchess' style has become even more elevated, as she consistently looks stunning and continues to set trends with her looks.

What do you think about Kate Middleton paying homage to Princess Diana with her gold metallic dress? Do you see the similarities? Pass this on to any royal fans you know so they can see it too!