Kate Middleton just recycled her best Zara dress

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Although she must have dozens of designers falling over backwards to dress her, Kate Middleton isn't averse to a good high-street buy.

She proved it during the World Cup when she supported the England team with a red Zara blazer, and she hammered the point home yesterday during a university visit in London.

The Duchess headed to University College London's Centre for Longitudinal Studies to discuss a new holistic study with researches, and chose to recycle an old Zara dress for it.

The black and white checked midi dress features a pleated skirt, chunky belt and pussy bow detail at the top, and Kate paired it with grey faux croc heels.

(Image credit: 2021 Karwai Tang)

The dress is from Zara's AW20 collection, however you can still find it on eBay for around £80 (the price tag naturally hiked up after Kate stepped out in it).

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Raina Houndstooth Jersey Dress, £59 at Phase Eight
The striking Raina houndstooth midi dress is crafted from soft mesh and jersey fabric that compliments the monochrome graphic. Cut with a high neckline, gathered sleeves and belted waist, this tailored silhouette promises to make an effortless addition to your work and day wardrobes.

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Houndstooth Midi Shirt Dress, £60 at Cath Kidston
A simple shirt dress designed to fit close to the body, and made special with a beautifully-drawn heritage print and fluid, viscose fabric. The dress is lined and has a buttoned front and cuffs and a neat collar, as well as all-important pockets concealed in the side seams. The midi length feels modern, and there's a matching waist belt to cinch or tie loosely as you choose.

Or you can shop from the similar styles I've found above. Kate discussed the new study, which will look at the holistic development of children, a cause close to her heart.

Penny Goldstone

Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.

She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.