Every royal wardrobe adheres to its own logic. Queen Elizabeth’s colorful coats and hats ensure she can be spotted no matter how big the crowd is. Meghan Markle’s outfit choices focus on signal boosting sustainable labels or designers of color. Kate Middleton’s fashion m.o. has evolved, early on she was known for her collegiate classics now she dresses like a future queen. Still, the Duchess of Cambridge has always made sure to support designers and brands with British roots. Through her long-term collaboration with Alexander McQueen designer Sarah Burton, and her love of high street labels like Whistles and Topshop, Middleton keeps her fashion choices patriotic. While she’s yet to shock the world by arriving at a royal engagement in a London Fashion Week rebel like Molly Goddard or Richard Quinn, Middleton still finds subtle ways to excite.
While attending the launch of her Hold Still photography exhibition at London’s Waterloo station, the Duchess showed off a bold new accessory: Grace Han’s “Love Letter” handbag. The top-handle bag from Han’s eponymous collection of leather goods was elegant and minimal. Its clean lines and gold hardware fit with Middleton’s down-to-earth style. When paired with statement pieces like the Duchess’s Alexander McQueen double-breasted wool and cashmere coat and floral Amaia reusable mask, it provided the perfect finish to a regal look.
Han’s connection to Britain is unique. Born in Taiwan and raised between Taipei and London, Han began her label in 2009. After making her first collection out of her apartment in Taipei and steadily building a clientele, Han knew she wanted her first store in Knightsbridge. London was where her parents met as students, fell in love and got married. Last February, she achieved her goal with a splashy opening that introduced her work to a new set of admirers. Now on Caroline Issa, Natalia Barbieri, and Middleton’s arm, Han’s bags have attained cult status among girls and royals alike.