Color Me Green: Kate's Various Shades of Green for 2013

Every year the experts at Pantone choose an official color for the year.  This color can often inspire or influence designer collections and eventually trickle down throughout the fashion industry. Emerald has been chosen as the official color of 2013, so green, in various shades, will be just a tad hotter this year.  Thankfully, for those who take their sartorial cues from the Queen of Style herself, HRH the Duchess of Cambridge, she has worn plenty of green and we can all steal some inspiration from her past choices.

Kate dazzled last year in this aqua green Jenny Packham gown at the Our Greatest Team Rises Gala in support of the British Olympic team. Jenny Packham may not be McQueen or LK Bennett, but she has certainly had her fair share of royal attention. Kate has worn Jenny P on a number of high profile occasions, and the label has essentially filled the evening gown gap left when the new royal quietly distanced herself from her pre-wedding favorite, Issa. This intricate dress, modified from the designer's bridal collection, checks many of Kate's boxes, including graceful movement in the fabric, her penchant for feminine lace, and the exquisite detailing on the bodice and back.   

On the job, Kate wore a deeper teal when she joined the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh as they kicked off the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations.  Some women have the ability to see pieces on a hanger, looking only ordinary or rather dull, and yet pull them together to make something stunning. The separates were from favorite brand LK Bennett and the retro vibe was cutting edge chic. Highlighting the suit with a black structured beret, Kate created absolute magic. That being said, the next time Kate appeared with her grandmother-in-law, they had coordinated their outfits to complement in color just a little better. Even veteran royals learn on the job, it would seem. 

In a very unusual move, Kate went American in an olive green Ralph Lauren (Blue Label) knit dress when she visited Centrepoint with William. This look is classic Kate Middleton.  A streamlined silhouette in an understated color, black stockings and her iconic black suede boots. Before her engagement, it was not unusual for her to be seen in very similar ensembles shopping Kensington High Street. These are her Aquatalia Rumba boots she has worn countless times since she first debuted them in Scotland on her engagement tour of the UK. 

Last year on St. Patrick's Day, Kate wore a lovely forest green coat dress. With emerald green the official color of the year, it will be interesting to see if she opts for a brighter shade this coming March!