Kate Middleton Following Footsteps of Fashion Icon Princess Diana

Kate Middleton has drawn new attention to her taste in fashion in a dress that is reminiscent of Princess Diana.

The Duchess of Cambridge wore the black velvet Alexander McQueen dress to a Military Award’s bash in London this week. The long, off the shoulder dress with a ruffled bodice reminded many of a similar dress that launched Princess Diana as an international fashion icon.

In 1981, the Princess of Wales wore a black satin gown with similarly ruffled edges to a fundraiser at The Royal Opera House. Princess Diana was only 19, but made headlines around the world.

Much like Princess Diana, Kate Middleton has quickly become a fashion role model to many women. Some are even calling it “the Kate effect.”

A number of clothes have sold off the shelves after the Duchess has been photographed wearing them including the blue wrap Issa dress she wore for her engagement.

“She was always going to be a style icon” David Emmanuel told the Express news column from the United Kingdom. He designed the wedding dress worn by Princess Diana and applauded Kate Middleton for her quick sense, “It’s amazing how she has established a style so quickly.”

The Duchess’ fashion, which mixes street store clothes with high-end couture has been applauded by most although criticized by some.

Vivienne Westwood, a famous British fashion designer told the press that she disagreed with Kate’s make-up decisions and labeled her fashion sense “too ordinary.”