How Prince William is the Vintage King – from his second-hand blazer to the reason he regularly re-wears the same tie
STEPPING out in a pair of sparkling £130 biodegradable trainers or donning a second-hand blazer, Prince William is fast becoming the Vintage King.
Last week, he caught the eye of fashion lovers everywhere by sporting a dove-grey, double-breasted blazer from a local vintage store in London while attending the Earthshot gala in Cape Town.
This is said to be the first time William has publicly worn pre-loved clothing, and he also doesn’t shy away from regularly re-wearing the same clothes.
The Princess of Wales is known for her thrifty recycling of outfits, and it seems her habits have passed onto her husband.
Blazer
In November 2019, the Prince looked sharp as he attended the Royal Variety Performance alongside Kate.
He wore an impeccably cut black dinner suit with peak lapels and a bow tie, while the Princess dazzled in a black Alexander McQueen sheer-effect lace gown.
In February 2020, the Prince wore the same stylish single-breasted suit with bold peak lapels, paired with a velvet bow tie and velvet loafers, while attending London’s Royal Albert Hall for the BAFTAs.
Suits
The Prince looked dapper wearing a traditional morning suit with a crisp top hat and black umbrella used as a cain whilst attending The Royal Ascot in 2019, alongside his wife who matched his stylish energy.
She opted for a blue Ellie Saab pussy bow blouse and coordinating tulle skirt with polka dot embroidery throughout and sheer detailing along the sleeves.
The duo then re-wore the same outfit whilst celebrating King Charles III’s Coronation Garden Party in 2023.
The only difference between William’s outfits is that he wore a slightly lighter tie than the one he wore in 2019.
Trainers
When it comes to keeping his style more relaxed, the Prince coolly embraces the old-school Onitsuka Tiger trainers.
The Mexico 66, inspired by Onitsuka Tiger’s “Limber shoe,” was one of the first to feature the iconic swooping stripes.
Named after the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico, where it was the official shoe of the Japanese national team, the Mexico 66 has a storied history.
The Prince often pairs these trainers with jeans or smart flared trousers, showcasing old-meets-new style at its finest.
Brown loafers
And his shoe collection doesn’t stop there.
The Prince has also regularly been seen wearing brown loafers whilst out and about.
The smart shoes, which have a casual twist, have been worn with chinos, shirt and blazer.
He was spotted wearing them as he accompanied Kate to celebrate a World Mental Health Day event at County Hall and The London Eye back in 2016.
He also styled a pair of brown loafers with white trousers, shirt and blazer whilst in California in 2011.
Tie
Another favourite clothing item of the Prince is his ‘special’ tie. This striking red and black tie makes an appearance each year at the Festival of Remembrance.
The father-of-three consistently wears this tie for the poignant ceremony because it is the regimental tie of the Household Division.
During his military career, William served in their Blues & Royals regiment, making this tie a touching tribute.
Bow tie
In June 2011 William looked stylish whilst attending his first joint engagement after getting married to Kate, whilst she wore a sequined Jenny Packham dress.
And her clearly loved the outfit so much so he actually repeated the exact outfit whilst attending the Royal Variety Performance at the Palladium Theatre, London in 2019.
Kate Middleton's love of recycling clothes
KATE Middleton might be a Princess, but that certainly doesn't stop her from rewearing her favourite frocks.
Jenny Packham Gown: She first worn the frock to an ARK Gala Dinner in June 2011, and then rewore it three years later to the National Portrait Gallery in February 2014.
Alexander McQueen Coat Dress: Kate donned the beautiful number for Trooping the Colour in June 2016 and then just a year later, was spotted in it again for the Easter Service, in April 2017.
Temperley London Dress: She first wore the black lace dress at the War Horse Premiere, in January 2012, but then, just months later, donned it again, at the St. Andrews University Gala, in December 2012.
Hobbs Coat: Even Kate is a fan of a staple coat, as she’s reworn a classic number from Hobbs, which she first wore on Christmas Day in December 2012, and then again on a visit to Newcastle, in October 2013.
Kate Middleton’s sartorial choices continue to inspire many, proving that elegance and sustainability can go hand in hand.