TORONTO - Kate is striking a patriotic chord with her Canada Day ensemble, stepping out in items from U.K. labels in the colours of the Maple Leaf, and a symbolic jewelry piece from the monarch with ties to Canada.
While the Duchess of Cambridge donned new looks from Canadian labels for the first day of her first official visit abroad, she went back into the wardrobe today for a more familiar favourite.
Kate arrived at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Que., wearing a cream dress from Reiss. The Nannette dress -- with three-quarter length sleeves, an asymmetrical draped neckline and ruffle detail -- is the same one she wore for her official engagement photo with Prince William.
Her topper from milliner Sylvia Fletcher at Lock and Co. had a distinctive Canadian flavour, complete with its rich red hue and adornment of fabric maple leaves.
And for an added regal touch, the duchess wore the Queen's diamond Maple Leaf brooch. The Queen, as Princess Elizabeth, wore the brooch on her first visit to Canada in 1951 and again on Canada Day last year.
Kate completed the look with a straw cream and red fan clutch purse from Anya Hindmarch, and red heels.
Canadian womenswear designer David Dixon said he thinks Kate's look is appropriate for the occasion.
"The fact that she has worn this dress before sends a message that she is aware of her role, and that she may not be willing to take on the role of a fashion icon as of yet, or simply to be known or noticed for what she wears," Dixon said in an email to The Canadian Press.
"Kate -- like (U.S. first lady) Michelle Obama, I believe -- wants to be taken seriously as (a) modern woman, not just a fashion plate."
