Sloaney Fashion: Kate Middleton heralds the return of the glamorous long dress

The Duchess of Cambridge was pictured wearing another stunning Jenny Packham gown last night when she hosted a dinner with the Duke at St James’s Palace for the National Memorial Arboretum Appeal. The Grecian inspired dress accentuated her slim waist and aptly highlighted her poppy.

Long hemlines are making a return this season and they are ideal for achieving a sense of high fashion glamour. The Winter Maxi Dress is a welcome supplement to a ball gown and allows for a modern take on this traditional style.

Here are The Sloaney’s Top Three Long Dresses:

This beautiful Roberto Cavalli gown will imitate the fluidity of Kate’s dress as the silk moves softly against your skin. The drop waist gives a nod to 1920’s sophistication and the floral print is very on trend. £1,780

The embroided tulle gown by Monique Lhuillier is simply exquisite and this is reflected by its price tag. The boned bodice and stunning detail epitomises traditional elegance. £13,500

The Duchess is a big fan of Issa and this halter neck maxi will add a pop of colour to your wardrobe this winter. £575

Sloaney Beauty: The quick and easy way to having hair like the Duchess of Cambridge

Speculation has been mounting for some time as to whether the Duchess of Cambridge receives a helping hand with her fabulous bouffant through the use of a hair piece or extensions. Whether the flowing locks are entirely her own or given a subtle boost remains a well-kept secret.

One thing is certain; Kate Middleton has always been very reliant upon the skills of her hairdresser, Richard Ward. For those of you wanting to replicate her voluminous style, without having a daily blow dry, Harrods stock a high-end range of hair pieces by Vicki Ullah.

The Wig Boudoir is situated in the Urban Retreat section of the luxury department store where you can view a selection of synthetic or human hair extensions. An experienced stylist will help you make a suitable choice and although permanent extensions are available, The Sloaney recommends opting for a temporary hair piece.



A Vicki Ullah model shows off a tempoary hair piece 



After trialling both options, the main advantage of a temporary extension is that you can take it out when you don’t need the added volume. Therefore, you will have much more flexibility for styling your hair and following the latest trends. Not only can permanent extensions be difficult to wash, but they will also weaken your hair after time. By removing your hair piece as you please, you can give your own hair some respite and special treatment.

Consultations: £50

Human hair extensions: from £169

Sloaney Events: Explore authentic 'Country Heritage' at Farlows

The Sloaney was recently invited to preview the Autumn/Winter collection at Farlows on Pall Mall.

This provided the perfect opportunity to explore one of this season’s most influential trends, ‘Country Heritage’.

Farlows is a haven amongst the busy streets of London for country enthusiasts and the department store is committed to helping you enjoy rural pursuits. With Royal status, it is little wonder that Farlows regularly welcomes the likes of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Among Kate’s favourite items in the store is the luxurious selection of bags.

She reportedly purchased one from the collection and The Sloaney was particularly impressed with the Tusting Gladstone Tourer Bag (£565). Ideal for a weekend away, this stylish holdall is fitting for British heritage fashion and the classic accessory will no doubt feature as a timeless piece in your wardrobe.

Country fashion is not only for rural surroundings and there were many key pieces that could be worked into a city wardrobe. For example, the Farlows Cotswold Field Coat (£449.95) has a baggy fit and would look stylish over a pair of skinny black jeans and the Mulberry shearling boots that featured in Sloaney Style earlier this week.  

Tweed remains a key textile this season and Farlows stock an authentic short tweed jacket (£279), which will create a chic silhouette. To integrate it with your current wardrobe, you can match it with a plain shift dress and leggings to create a smart day look, which may also be worn into the evening.

For those planning a weekend away in the countryside, or if you simply want to keep your feet nice and dry from the city showers, the Dubarry Unisex Galway Boots  (£299) are both stylish and practical. The Sloaney suggests the Black Mahogany version for a regal twist.

STOP PRESS: VOTE 'THE SLOANEY' TO STYLE FARLOWS WINDOW:

If you would like to opt for head-to-toe country attire, The Sloaney took part in the 'Farlows Style Challenge'. To see the look we created and to vote for us to dress the prestigious Pall Mall window display, please put your thumbs up and ‘like’ the following photo on the Farlows Facebook page:

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PHOTO