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 People: The Duchess of Cambridge steps out in Amanda Wakeley

The Duchess of Cambridge stepped out earlier today on an official engagement to visit the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust in South London. Catherine dressed for the warm weather in a classic cream Amanda Wakeley dress, which she teamed with nude heels from high street store, L.K. Bennett. 

It seems that one of Kate's favourite style secrets is to use nude heels to create the illusion of longer legs. Although she continues to steer towards the safe side of fashion, her look today was typically elegant. What you do think of the outfit? 

.

Sloaney People: The Duchess of Cambridge spices up her image in military inspired McQueen

The Duchess of Cambridge has stepped out to show her support to Birmingham following the recent riots. She visited the city with Prince William and met with local residents.

Kate opted for a more fashion forward outfit than usual and swapped her classic attire for a chic military inspired look. She again revealed her fondness for Alexander McQueen designs and this latest choice of outfit is possibly a reaction to recent criticism that her dress sense is too ‘ordinary’. Although she was still armed with her favourite style of shoe, Kate definitely spiced up her image today but has maintained her refined style that has proved so popular over recent months.

What do you think of Kate’s dress sense? Let The Sloaney know by leaving a comment…