TIMELESS, consistent and always stylish.
Yes we’re talking about Kate Middleton but also her most reliable top.
On Sunday evening the Prince and Princess of Wales congratulated Team GB over their amazing efforts during this year’s Olympics with a video on their social media channels.
Stood side by side, William showed off a new look with his beard whilst Kate went with an old favourite, a Breton top.
Catherine chose her Ralph Lauren‘Tori’ Breton striped top that she has worn a number of times, including in 2013 at a Sports, while shopping in Anglesey 2013, at Houghton Horse Trials in 2016.
But that’s not the only striped number she has.
In March of this year when Kate bravely revealed she was undergoing treatment for cancer she wore a Breton jumper from designer British brand, Erdem.
Throughout Kate’s style reign she has worn the striped wardrobe essential on off-duty days and to royal events that warrant a more relaxed appearance.
Even her faultless look for Trooping the Colour earlier featured a customised striped bow and waistband on a white dress she had previously worn.
So why this time? Let’s go back to the beginning.
The French navy wore the 21 striped Breton as their uniform as a nod to Napoleon’s 21 victories and latterly were worn for being striking and visible in water.
Ever since they have been worn by mariners and then Coco Chanel was seduced by their look and masculinity that she made them fashionable for ladies leisurely looks.
Since then the trend has been worn by umpteen style icons including Brigette Bardot, Audrey Hepburn, Carrie Bradshaw, Kate Moss and, of course, various members of the royal family such as Diana and Meghan.
Whether it’s a top or a jumper, the Breton acts as somewhat of a comfort blanket for Catherine.
It’s become a uniform for her which means when she wears it she’ll instantly feel confident and at ease especially through difficult times.
It’s also a reminder of consistency, not only for Kate but for us too.
The royals as a British consistent that we can rely on, as is a Breton top thanks to its long historical popularity.
Also, the striped stable is hugely versatile, inoffensive and therefore makes her more relatable.
A strip to the seaside, the supermarket or school gates will prove their popularity and relatability.
Plus, Kate is a mum and its school holidays.
She’s battling an illness and juggling entertaining three children.
Reaching for your go-to top is something we’d all do in the same shoes – you just want something easy but stylish.
And the Breton does just that.
Timeline of Kate's health battle & recovery
JAN 16: Kate is admitted to the London Clinic for abdominal surgery
JAN 17: Kensington Palace announce the princess underwent surgery
JAN 18: William spends time at Kate’s bedside
JAN 23: The princess’ hospital stay passes one week
JAN 29: Kate leaves hospital
FEB 27: Prince William pulls out of service last-minute due to ‘personal matter’, sparking wave of unfounded conspiracy theories about Kate’s health
MAR 4: Princess pictured in the car with mum Carole on the Windsor estate
Mar 10: Royal posts a sweet snap of her and the kids for Mother’s Day – then fans started spotting flaws, and massive agencies put out ‘kill notice’ on photo
Mar 11: Kate admits she edited photo, and is snapped in car with William
Mar 16: Royal fans spot the princess at farm shop near Windsor
Mar 17: Onlookers see Kate watching her youngsters playing sport
Mar 18: The Sun exclusively published video of Kate and Wills from two days prior
Mar 22: Kate bravely reveals in an emotional video that she was given a shock cancer diagnosis
April 29: Kate and William mark 13th anniversary releasing unseen wedding photos
June 8: Kate does not attend Colonel’s Review but letter she penned to Irish Guards reveals she said: “I do hope that I am able to represent you all once again very soon”
June 14: Kate attended Trooping the Colour alongside her family
July 14: Kate attended the Wimbledon Men’s Final with Princess Charlotte