As the festive season beckons, it’s clear that few embody the art of yuletide dressing with as much timeless appeal as Kate Middleton. Throughout her life as a working royal, the Princess of Wales has spent more than a decade perfecting the balance between tradition and modernity, specifically during the holidays.

With an affinity for championing British craftsmanship from designers like Alexander McQueen and Jenny Packham, her seasonal ensembles have consistently served as a regal blend of structured tailoring and feminine silhouettes—while still appropriately warm for the winter chill.

While our festivities might not require the formalities of the royals—or the same season—questions of what to wear have long been a concern during this time—especially when you consider all of those photo ops your family insist on. And having accumulated a curation of elegant wardrobe staples, Middleton has consistently provided inspiration for us.

This season, as we begin putting together our many, many holiday outfits, we reflect on her style as timeless blueprints for festive dressing.

Scroll on for Kate Middleton’s best holiday looks throughout the years.

2012

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2015

2016

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2019

2020

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2023