Kate Middleton's Reiss dress is instant sellout

Fashion fans crashed the brand's website yesterday, in a rush to get their hands on the Duchess's high street item

The Duchess of Cambridge sparked a fashion frenzy yesterday, when she chose a £175 Reiss dress to meet Michelle and Barack Obama at Buckingham Palace.

Within minutes the chic Shola taupe creation sold out on the brand’s website, with fashion fans crashing the online store, all clamoring to get their hands on the high street item.

PICS: PRINCE WILLIAM AND KATE MIDDLETON MEET THE OBAMAS

The Reiss website was seemingly down for around two hours as shoppers surged to purchase Kate’s stylish dress.

But brand officials have blamed 'unprecedented traffic' for the event, and promised to get the site up and running – and Kate’s dress back in stock – as quickly as possible. 

'Due to unprecedented demand, Shola mania has crashed our website!’ a Reiss spokesman Tweeted yesterday. ‘We are endeavouring to bring the Reiss brand back to you ASAP!'’

The second time the Duchess of Cambridge has chosen the brand for a high profile appearance - she wore a white dress for her official engagement photo shoot with Mario Testino - it's the latest in a string of affordable fashion buys to be spotted in her wardrobe, including pieces from LK Bennett and Whistles.

On her first post-wedding appearance, Kate opted for a simple, £49.99 pleated Zara dress in peacock blue, which promptly sold out in stores around the country.

Did you love Kate Middleton’s high street style? Are you a fan of Kate's dress? Let us know in the comments box below.

PICS: PRINCE WILLIAM AND KATE MIDDLETON MEET THE OBAMAS

KATE MIDDLETON STYLE HISTORY