Kate Middleton wears houndstooth for Harvard visit – here’s how to work the print

Catherine Princess of Wales - Kate Middleton wears houndstooth for Harvard visit — The Princess visited Harvard to speak about improving the outcomes of children (Picture: Tim Rooke/Shutterstock)

Kate Middleton rarely misses the mark when it comes to fashion, and her latest outfit will likely be just as trendsetting as usual.

The royal was pictured visiting Harvard in Massachusetts today, speaking to The Center of the Developing Child at Harvard University as part of a solo engagement during a tour of Boston.

Wearing a structured houndstooth dress, Kate greeted officials and gave a quick wave to onlookers before being taken to view the Moonshot project, which inspired the Earthshot prize.

The calf-length dress was a real showstopper, featuring demure long sleeves and an exaggerated dagger collar; a favourite of the Princess of Wales.

A navy and pale blue dogstooth pattern gives the piece a unique edge, while a thin waist belt adds definition and shape.

It appears to be a custom gown by Emilia Wickstead, as it features the same pencil shape and distinctive pattern as the brand’s £1,150 Miles dress, albeit with a regal twist.

Kate Middleton — The houndstooth pencil dress was paired with a blue micro handbag (Picture: Tim Rooke/Shutterstock)

Kate paired the dress with a sky blue mini bag and midnight blue heeled pumps, going for a simple pair of hoop earrings to finish the look off.

She has long been a fan of supporting British designers, particularly favouring heritage materials and prints on this US trip – including a standout tartan Burberry frock while meeting Mayor Michelle Wu.

It can be difficult to balance out the old-fasioned image of houndstooth. After all, you don’t want to look like you’re cosplaying Sherlock Holmes.

Catherine Princess of Wales — Lean into the ‘posh’ image of the heritage print (Picture: Tim Rooke/Shutterstock)

However, it’s a surprisingly versatile print… for both royals and commoners alike.

The trick is to be careful with the quality of the pieces you choose.

Kate Middleton, for example, regularly wears items by upmarket country brand Holland Cooper, with gold hardware, tailored shapes, and bold checks taking centre stage. Even if her wardrobe is out of your budget, you can mirror these aspects in something more affordable.

Don’t skip the thrift when looking for dogstooth fashion either, as you’re likely to find all sorts of gems in vintage and charity shops. Who knows the lives your next sartorial staple may have lived before you.