There is a secret meaning behind this Kate Middleton outfit

And we love it.

kate middleton gala

And we love it.

The Duchess of Cambridge attended the annual National Portrait Gallery gala fundraiser last night, wearing a very special outfit for the occasion.

Kate, who has been a patron of the National Portrait Gallery since 2012, turned up in a stunning green lace gown by Temperly London, teamed with simple accessories, all chosen for a very important reason.

Kate’s outfit last night was a symbol of the evening, with many taking her choice to wear three British designers as a nod to the renowned UK institution that the gala was celebrating,

Accessorising her floor length green lace gown, Kate went down the British route, wearing a pair of special edition earrings by Kiki McDonough, with pink tourmaline, green amethyst and pave diamonds. The outfit was finished off with her signature accessory: the Kate Middleton clutch bag, with last night’s choice designed by Wilbur & Gussie.

kate middleton gala

The Duchess of Cambridge has a strong influence in the world of fashion, known as the Kate Middleton effect, whereby her royal seal of approval can make pieces sell out in minutes and turn small British businesses into internationally renowned brands. Showing off the work of three British designers in one night is therefore sure to make a difference.

Last night’s gala was raising money for Coming Home, an exciting project enabling portraits of high profile figures to return to their most treasured place, on loan for three years. It will see a portrait of the Bronte sisters return to Yorkshire, artwork of Sir Walter Raleigh go back to Dorset and a portrait of David Beckham return to Essex.

Taking a sneak peek at all of the collections on the evening, Kate apparently announced, ‘well, they’re all amazing.’

Jenny Proudfoot
Features Editor

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. She has worked at Marie Claire UK for seven years, rising from intern to Features Editor and is now the most published Marie Claire writer of all time. She was made a 30 under 30 award-winner last year and named a rising star in journalism by the Professional Publishers Association.