Pippa Middleton’s psychedelic dress might be her boldest outfit ever

She may not be an official member of the royal family, but Pippa Middleton became a global fashion phenomenon following her role as maid of honour at the Prince and Princess of Wales’ 2011 wedding.

What makes her style particularly memorable is that she is not afraid of playful prints of bright colours. While she has softened her approach in recent years, opting for ditsy floral designs or one colourful item, Pippa wore perhaps her boldest dress in 2019.

For the British Heart Foundation Beating Hearts Ball, Princess Kate’s sister stepped out in a floor-length black gown covered with a psychedelic red and white print from Temperley London. The ruffled sleeves and striped detail ensured she stood out from the crowd, with Pippa choosing a simple red clutch and an elegant updo to complement the busy design.

Pippa Middleton’s journey into the style spotlight

Before April 2011, Pippa could largely go about her daily life, recognised predominantly when she stepped out for a sister date with Prince William’s then-girlfriend. 

Her global recognition changed overnight when she stepped out at Westminster Abbey in a bespoke gown by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, with the fitted silhouette quickly making global headlines.

Reflecting on the sudden attention, she said in her book Celebrate: “It’s a bit startling to achieve global recognition before the age of 30 on account of your sister, your brother-in-law and your bottom.”  

On the evening of the royal wedding, Pippa chose to inject some colour into her wardrobe with an Alice Temperley emerald-green gown featuring a low neckline and an embellished detail on the bodice.

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According to People, Alice later explained: “Pippa was a delight to work with and knows exactly what she likes. She loved the green colour, which looks great on her skin tone. The dress was designed especially for her with a fantastic open back and a full skirt for dancing in.”

The following day, Pippa was pictured leaving London’s Goring Hotel alongside her parents, Carole and Michael, and her younger brother James following the wedding. Showing off her favoured outfit formula, she wore white skinny jeans and a bright blue blazer from Zara – a trick she often uses to spruce up a more casual look.

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Why Princess Kate and Pippa Middleton have different approaches to fashion

While her sister Princess Kate has similarly chosen bright blazers over the years, she prefers colour-blocking to busy patterns. According to personal stylist Susie Hasler, this is because she can approach fashion in a more playful and relaxed way, while Kate must take into account her royal role.

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“Although they are sisters, Kate and Pippa have very different roles, and their fashion choices reflect this appropriately,” she previously told HELLO!.

“Florals and playful patterns have really become part of [Pippa’s] branding – it’s almost as recognisable as Kate’s solid-colour approach.

“Pippa-style prints tend to draw attention to the clothing itself, taking it away from the engagement or the people Kate’s there to support. Importantly, busy prints don’t always photograph well, hence Kate’s preference for block colours,” Susie added.