Kate Middleton is ready for fall in rich jewel tones and black opaque tights

Kate Middleton Reiss coat and Paule Ka skirt and jacket
Photography by Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Kate Middleton Reiss coat and Paule Ka skirt and jacket
Photography by Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Take a closer look at Kate Middleton’s outfits »

Gone are the topical accessories, strapless dresses and pastel colours she wore just weeks ago—Kate Middleton is completely ready for fall, and doing so with a range of rich jewel-toned outfits. Considering that she has a half-dozen appearances scheduled this week, over the coming days our Kate Middleton gallery is going to fill up with cold-weather-approved outfits. And while we can’t confirm that the Duchess has been reading our Fall/Winter 2012 trend guide, it’s worth pointing out that so far, she’s most definitely following our fashion forecast.

On Monday Kate Middleton and Prince William were at London’s Middle Temple—Will was actually given the title of Master of the Bench there in 2008, making him an honorary barrister of sorts. Unfortunately we didn’t get to see Prince William in a white powdered wig, as the purpose of this visit was to launch a new scholarship named for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and to meet with students who have received existing scholarships named for other members of the royal family, including Princess Diana. Kate marked the occasion in a burgundy double-breast jacket and skirt by French designer Paule Ka. The jacket featured peplum-esque detailing at the waist and the skirt hit quite a few inches above Kate Middleton’s knees—perhaps this was the reason she chose opaque black tights instead of her usual sheer ones. And, in keeping with the matching game, Kate wore black suede heels by Episode.

The black tights were back on today, when Kate Middleton toured the new St George’s Park soccer (er, football!) facility with Prince William. In a look that was very reminiscent of her per-engagement style, she also had on knee-high boots: a black suede pair from Aquatalia by Marvin K. Due to much of today’s appearance taking place outside, Kate accessorized her green Reiss Angel Fit and Flare coat with a crocodile-looking belt—also by the brand—giving it the appearance of a coat dress. (If you’re curious, that coat was first seen last Christmas, when Kate wore it to a private church service with the royal family.) And, in keeping with the green theme of the outfit, Kate wore her amethyst Kiki McDonough earrings.

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