Royal Ascot racegoers seek fashion inspiration from the Duchess of Cambridge

Despite the nation’s newfound fascination with Meghan Markle’s sell-out wardrobe, the ‘Kate Effect’ is still going strong. Case in point: three guests sought inspiration from the Duchess of Cambridge at Royal Ascot 2018.

Despite skipping this year’s racing event – the 36-year-old is currently on maternity leave – she still managed to prove her sartorial influence.

In keeping with the prestigious racecourse’s strict dress code, three women each chose to wear the duchess’ now-famous crochet-effect Self-Portrait dress.

The royal first wore the £320 cream-hued look back in November 2016 – the same year in which Paris Hilton also donned the dress – for the star-studded premiere of A Street Cat Named Bob.

Further proof of her sartorial pulling power? The dress sold out within a mere matter of hours. Fast-forward almost two years and the protocol-breaking dress remains a seriously covetable look.

Though it comes as no surprise that racegoers are flocking to recreate the red carpet aesthetic, as it is strikingly reminiscent of her previous Royal Ascot dresses.

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For both of the Duchess of Cambridge’s appearances at the regal event, she wore lace-emblazoned looks by Alexander McQueen and Dolce and Gabbana.

But Self-Portrait is fast becoming one of the royal family’s go-to labels. The Duchess of Sussex also looked to the brand for sartorial assistance on one of her first pre-wedding engagements.

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For the Invictus Games reception at the Australian embassy back in April, the duchess-to-be opted for a £300 floral midi dress by the fashion house and teamed the look with a slick blazer by Alexander McQueen.

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