Queen Elizabeth and Kate's clever styling trick for instantly polished outfits – and how to recreate their best autumn looks with this season's trending shades

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Queen Elizabeth II was one of Britain’s most successful and enduring monarchs, remembered not only for her extraordinary service but also for her unmistakable sense of style.

In her later years, the Queen worked closely with her senior dresser, Angela Kelly, to curate a vibrant wardrobe designed to ensure she was always visible in a crowd. 

Her signature approach was unapologetically monochromatic: outfits built around a single colour, finished with her iconic black Launer handbag and loafers.

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Today, the Princess of Wales continues that colourful style legacy, giving it a contemporary update by extending the tonal approach to her accessories.

Monochromatic dressing can feel intimidating at first, but it is actually one of the simplest ways to create a put-together look. 

The key is to combine different shades and textures within the same colour family, adding depth and dimension while maintaining a cohesive overall effect.

And with this season’s standout shades offering plenty of inspiration, embracing tonal dressing has never been easier.

From rich burgundy to fresh off-white, I’ve put together four colour-led looks guaranteed to make an impact.

Burgundy

Burgundy is enjoying a major resurgence this season. This rich, sophisticated hue has long been a favourite of the Princess of Wales and Zara Tindall, and it’s easy to see why. 

Deep, warm and luxurious, burgundy adds instant radiance and works beautifully from head to toe. 

Phase Eight Nicoletta Tie Belt Midi Coat 

£249 Shop
John Lewis Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper  £99

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John Lewis Pleated Wide Leg Trousers  £49

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M&S Stiletto Ankle Boots  £45

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Strathberry Mosaic Bag  £495

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Cocoa brown

Warm, earthy shades, such as cocoa brown, are stealing the spotlight this autumn/winter. 

Rich and versatile, this softer alternative to classic black feels modern and refined, while also being more flattering against complexions that can find stark black draining. 

M&S Longline Tailored Coat with Wool 

£70 Shop
M&S Shimmer Knitted Long Sleeve Shirt  £30

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M&S Faux Leather Textured Midi A-Line Skirt  £45

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Boden Block Heel Stretch Boots  £129

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DeMellier The Small Hudson Bag  £425

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Transformative teal

Bold yet surprisingly wearable, transformative teal blends deep blue with aquatic green for a striking jewel-toned effect. 

Named WGSN and Coloro’s Colour of the Year for 2026, it offers a fashion-forward choice that feels both energising and elegant. 

Boden Keswick Cord Blazer 

£149 Shop
FatFace Ellen Blouse  £49.50

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Boden Belgravia Cord Trousers  £119

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Next Forever Comfort Pointed Toe Ankle Boots  £40

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Radley Heath Crescent Shoulder Bag  £199

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Cloud dancer

Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer, is a soft off-white that sits delicately between warm and cool tones. 

It acts as a blank canvas for tonal dressing, creating a look that feels light, clean and quietly luxurious.

Mango Handmade Wool Coat

£149.95 Shop
Karen Millen Forever Rib Knit Military Trim Dress  £95.20

Was £119 

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Hobbs Caroline Suede Knee Boots £129

Were £229 

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House of Bruar Leather Gloves  £29.95

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Aspinal of London Midi Mayfair  £695

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