15 TIPS TO BE AS ELEGANT AS KATE MIDDLETON
Being as stylish as the Duchess of Cambridge is easier than you think. We turned to an expert in etiquette to discover the keys to Kate Middleton's elegance.
The way you sit
There is never a time when the Duchess of Cambridge seems out of place. From her perfectly tailored outfits to that shiny hair we so envy, she is the perfect example of an elegant woman. But beyond the outer beauty and timeless style, there are other details to consider. That's why we turned to etiquette expert Myka Meier to find out what exactly makes the Duchess of Cambridge so stylish. Meier, who founded Beaumont Etiquette and trained in London under the tutelage of a former member of the royal house, even designed a crash course called The Duchess Effect on how to achieve Kate's style and elegance. While most of us mortals probably don't depend on such strict conventions, there are plenty of helpful tips that we can incorporate into our everyday lives. Because after all, who wouldn't want to look as stylish as Kate?
The first example is the way you sit. Kate would never cross her legs (be honest, did you just bring your knees together now?). According to Meier, "Kate always brings her knees together or only crosses her ankles," as shown in the photo above, left. Never cross your legs.
Put your hands together
What to do when you just don't know what to do with your hands? Bring them together like Kate does to get a "resting" pose.
A sporty 'look'
Not even the Duchess is able to give up on the sporty trend, but you won't see any looks from Kate inspired by Gigi or Kendall. "Instead of a tracksuit and a hoodie, go for a fancy jock and pair some lycra pants with a matching zip top," Meier suggests.
Denim? Yes!
We have already seen the Duchess in jeans, but only for casual occasions or for sporting events. Pair dark denim (like the J Brand skinny pants worn by the Middleton sisters) with a smart blazer or classic blouse for a casual yet elegant look.
Speak correctly
Without changing your accent, you too can sound like the duchess, just by using the correct vocabulary. And no swearing.
Regards
This very, very practical is not, but it is useful for the most travelers. When visiting foreign lands, you should follow local protocol (such as this nose-rubbing greeting practiced by the Maori people of New Zealand). And when greeting her close friends, Middleton prefers a kiss on the cheek (one kiss in New York and two in London).
Speed down
To appear as graceful as the Duchess, Meier recommends "just slow down, in terms of your movements and your voice."
Length matters
There is a very simple rule, according to Meier: "Put your hands to the sides and if you see that the hem of your skirt is above your middle finger, it is probably a signal to reconsider wearing it."
Openings and highlights
Do what the duchess does and wear them only for formal occasions.
Mix the accessories
According to Meier, Middleton has a large collection of accessories. However, not all of them have to be royal jewelry and Kate also often mixes them with costume jewelry.
Take care of the nails
Kate Middleton's nails are always groomed. Get inspired by her and bet on her favorite color: pale pink.
In the restaurant
There are some general rules that you have to keep in mind:
1. Your fork is on your left and your knife is on your right.
2.
The Duchess always moves the spoon outward.
3. Middleton lowers her
silverware every 3 to 4 bites.
4. Kate never announces that she
must use the bathroom, she just apologizes.
5. Forget applying
makeup on the table or anywhere in public.
Tea time '
When drinking tea, you should hold your cup by bringing your thumb and index finger together, and then resting your middle finger under the cup (note this photo for clear reference). Contrary to popular belief, never drink with your pinky raised.
You're late?
We cannot even imagine that the Duchess is late, as all the staff are aware of her schedule, but the delays affect everyone. "Always let you know you're running late," Meier suggests. If you are going to be 10 minutes late for a dinner at 8:00 p.m., call or text no later than 7:40 p.m.
Kindness above all
Despite all the rules, always show kindness towards others. "Being labeled as the Duchess simply means being kind, caring, respectful and kind to everyone around you. Think of others first and throw kindness like confetti," Meier explains. "Nothing bad has come out of being kind, and the Duchess certainly would not have become what she is today without her kindness!" We certainly cannot deny it.
We all know that Kate Middleton is a style benchmark. We are always aware of her looks and we try to copy them and not die trying to look as elegant as her. But there is much beyond her impeccable wardrobe and there are many useful tips that we can learn from her and incorporate into our daily lives. If that's what you want, of course.
THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE PROTOCOL
Actually being as stylish as Middleton is easier than you think. Yes, you have to take into account a few things, but all of the simplest. Remember that it is very important that you sit correctly. Always make sure your knees are aligned and together. Before sitting down, smooth the skirt under you. And feet? Kate Middleton teaches us that there are only two possible options: lay them flat on the ground or cross the ankles.
HOW TO LOOK ELEGANT
The Duchess of Cambridge knows well that skirt length matters. Forget about short skirts and stick to midi length. Show off slits and sparkles just for special occasions. For every day, bet on a casual look, but one of the most elegant. If you do not want your outfit to be boring, bet on the most fashionable accessories and mix them as you want (as long as they are the most chic).
