Princess Catherine Steps Out in Rich Browns for Audience with the Archbishop of Canterbury

On Thursday, the Prince and Princess of Wales made a notable visit to Lambeth Palace in London, where they met with the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally. 

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

This private audience marked their first official encounter with the Most Reverend Sarah Mullally since she became the 106th Archbishop—and the first woman ever to hold this historic position in the Church of England's 1,400-year history. 

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

Welcomed to her official residence and office, the couple engaged in warm discussions with Archbishop Mullally, touching on the vital role churches play in supporting local communities across the country.

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

For the occasion, the Princess of Wales embraced a sophisticated monochrome look in rich chocolate brown, opting for an elegant, feminine silhouette that marked a departure from her recent trouser-suit style.

Embed from Getty Images

The long coat is a custom creation by Catherine Walker, in a familiar style she already owns in navy and black (shown below).

Embed from Getty Images

Embed from Getty Images

What Kate Wore notes that the design shares several elements with Catherine Walker’s 'Yves' style, including a single-breasted open silhouette, notch peak lapels, a back vent, and structured shoulders. The Princess’s version, however, omits the slit cuffs and contrasting velvet back collar of the Yves.

Beneath the open-front coat, the Princess wore the long-sleeved version of Edeline Lee’s 'Jete' Crop Dress in brown. ID by @royallyinspired.

Embed from Getty Images

The US$2,080 midi dress features a tailored round neckline and fitted bodice, finished with a signature belt that the Princess customised with a matching covered buckle. The skirt flares into generous godet panels. It is handcrafted in England from a pebble-textured Flou Bubble Jacquard woven in Italy.​

She paired brown sheer hosiery with her Gianvito Rossi “Gianvito” 105 pumps in chocolate suede.​

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

The Princess debuted a personalised gold Daniella Draper Keeper’s Heart Trace Chain Necklace (US$2,200), and finished the look with her ​Cartier Trinity Classic Model Earrings.

Picture by Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

REPLI-KATE THE LOOK FOR LESS ...

Amazon $131

Nordstrom $78

Nine West $109

Amazon $34.99

DHGate $20.50

Nordstrom $30