Kate Middleton Wore This Timeless Basic in the Most Classic Way

It seems Kate Middleton has a go-to uniform whenever she poses for the much-anticipated royal Christmas card, which is usually released in mid-December each year. No, it’s not a fancy, cherry-red dress that screams Christmas cheer, nor is it a plaid midi skirt-and-turtleneck combo that’s just the right amount of festive. Though she has worn said looks in the past — and for holiday outings at that — whenever the annual Christmas card drops, we see a much more low-key Kate, and TBH, I love it.

Middleton and her family looked like they were posing for a J.Crew ad for this year’s Christmas card — and that’s a big compliment. The vibe was easy going and relatable, and we all know that Christmas cards can quickly go into the territory of bragging about every single thing you accomplished that year. This was not that. In fact, every member of the royal family wore pants — chill! Middleton went with jeans, which she’s done in past Christmas cards, while Prince William and Prince George opted for slightly more formal trousers. But the one common thread? Crisp white button-downs that were equal parts refined yet casual. 

Shop Kate Middleton-Inspired White Button-Down Shirts

• Nordstrom Classic Poplin Shirt, $59
• J.Crew Slim-Fit Stretch Cotton Poplin Shirt, $35 (Originally $80)
• Madewell the Signature Poplin Oversized Button-Up Shirt, $51 (Originally $85)
• Everlane the Relaxed Oxford Shirt, $88
• Reformation Andy Oversized Shirt, $128
• Treasure & Bond Dobby Classic Shirt, $59
• Alex Mill Easy Shirt, $130
• Frank & Eileen Eileen Linen Button-Up Shirt, $248

A white button-down is a staple piece in every wardrobe, and in case you had any doubts about how good it can look, even when styled in the simplest way, I kindly direct you over to the said royal photo. Middleton tucked her refined poplin shirt into what I’m certain were skinny jeans. She’s played favorites with the denim style before, especially for royal photoshoots like this. She kept the top buttons-open for an even more relaxed feel, rounding out the look with a sleek, black belt (one thing you should absolutely have on-hand, as well). 

She looks stylish! She looks classic! She looks elegant! And honestly, it’s all because of the white button-down's inherent versatility. It can be whatever you want it to be; see it as a blank canvas that can be turned into a sexy fashion moment à la Jennifer Lopez’s recent holiday look or something refined and unfussy, like in the Princess of Wales’ case. 

The white button-down is a (no-brainer) office staple — it has been for years and will continue to be— plus, it’s been worn on red carpets and is quickly turning into a fashion-girl must-have, especially an oversized version that looks more like you just woke up and stole it from your boyfriend than a once-stuffy office top that’s pure business. 

The white button-down has range, and no matter how you wear it, with jeans or a drapey silk skirt, it’s going to add a refined touch to everything — that’s already reason enough to invest in a new one. Shop crisp white button-downs inspired by Middleton’s, below.

Nordstrom Classic Poplin Shirt

J.Crew Slim-Fit Stretch Cotton Poplin Shirt

Madewell the Signature Poplin Oversized Button-Up Shirt

Everlane the Relaxed Oxford Shirt

Reformation Andy Oversized Shirt

Treasure & Bond Dobby Classic Shirt

Alex Mill Easy Shirt

Frank & Eileen Eileen Linen Button-Up Shirt