We're taking style notes from a 2013 throwback look of Carole Middleton's this winter, with her stunning monochrome outfit being instantly elevated by her choice of striking patterned tights.
Tights are an absolute must-have in any and all winter capsule wardrobes, with the cold winter winds and dreary wet days demanding at least a little practicality from our outfits. But far from being just a seasonal staple, tights can take an outfit from feeling plain and simple to oh-so chic if you opt for a patterned tight instead of the classic opaque styles.
It might feel like this small change wouldn't make much of a difference, but Carole Middleton proved just how high-impact patterned tights can be with her 2013 Christmas outfit that she wore to attend a Christmas carol service. Her black tailored coat, black heels, leather gloves and striking patterned tights created a look that we love and think could rival any of the more recent outfits she's worn to attend Princess Catherine's Together At Christmas Carol Service.
Get Carole Middleton's Look
With an intricate geometric knit creating a striking, textured look that will add immediate interest to any outfit this winter, these tights are a great and versatile buy.
This small and intricate herringbone pattern adds a subtle flair to these tights. They're made with added stretch so they're comfortable as well as stylish - and they have extra-durable reinforced toes!
Specially designed to shape your bum, tum and thighs, these tights are a staple you'll be wearing all season long, with their stunning and subtle diamond pattern adding a charming flair to any look.
With a smart, tailored silhouette that's fitted all the way down, this chic and stylish coat is more versatile than you might first think as the striking fur collar is detachable - It's practically two coats in one!
Keeping cosy in style is made super simple with these stunning leather gloves. Made from lambskin leather, they're super luxurious and are lined in silk for an elegant flair.
Court heels will forever be timeless and classic and this pair with a mule-inspired design, kitten heel and faux-suede makeup are a stunning way to incorporate the look into your wardrobe.
If you don't already have your Christmas party outfits picked out, Carole's look is a great one to recreate, especially if you're not a fan of the usual sparkles, velvets and flowing dresses that the festive season often brings with it.
This monochrome, sleek and sophisticated outfit is oh-so elegant at this time of year and feels incredibly wearable while also incorporating fun touches like the fur collar of the coat, the sleek leather gloves and, of course, the playful patterned tights.
The rich black tones create a striking monochrome effect, with the done-up coat looking cosy and chic as it keeps Carole warm. Though it is simple in terms of silhouette and, we assume, she's wearing a striking party dress underneath it, the coat itself is a beautiful piece with the fur collar adding an elegant flair that frames Carole's face.
With a pair of leather gloves and a matching leather handbag accessorising the outfit, it was Carole's patterned tights that took centre stage. The fishnet texture and geometric floral pattern marry together effortlessly and bring just a pop of interest. Imagine a pair of plain opaque tights in their place and Carole's look just doesn't have the same striking impact. It's such a small styling trick that can transform your outfit and bring it to a whole new level.
She kept both her makeup and her jewellery minimal, which played into the pared back, monochrome style. Her choice of footwear was similarly understated, with her opting for a pair of suede mule heels to finish off the look. With no straps breaking up the pattern on the tights, and the point-toe of the mules creating an elegant and classic shape, they were the perfect choice.
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