Five appropriate christening-inspired dresses to rival Kate Middleton

In case you missed it this morning, the adorable and beautiful images from the royal christening have surfaced (who said Monday’s are bad?). In the photos, Prince Louis can be seen in his white christening gown –a replica of a historic garment that dates back to the Victorian era – being officially baptized into the Church of England. While the young Prince was, of course, the centre of attention, mother and Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton’s dress didn’t go unnoticed either. Wearing white Alexander McQueen similar to her previous christening styles, the Duchess of Cambridge continued to keep her outfit neutral for her third child’s christening ceremony. The mid-length dress was complete with puffed sleeves and a coordinating headband adorned with flowers. Alexander McQueen, under the creative direction of Sarah Burton, has continued to be a go-to for Middleton since her wedding to Prince William in 2011. The brand has become a staple part of the Duchess’s royal wardrobe; reshaping the idea of traditional, church-appropriate attire for every age. If you’re looking for an occasion dress that cuts bias at the knee, scroll below for a selection of dresses to rival Kate Middleton.

A gentle neckline and exaggerated waist at Uterqüe

Oversized knitted dress, €115 at uterque.com

This oatmeal-coloured, fine-knit dress is part of Portuguese brands Uterqüe’s promising new-season collection. Made of delicate flowing fabric, this soft midi-length dress features practical, drop-shoulder sleeves and a sophisticated side-slit that isn’t too long or too short. Accentuate your curves with a matching fabric belt complete with two tortoiseshell-effect buckles (that can also be used to distract baby when they inevitably rile up throughout the service). Style with simple black sandals and earth-inspired jewellery.

Unconventional tradition at Helen Steele

Cora dress tribe print, €675 at helensteele.com

With its distinct colour-bomb print, this Helen Steele SS18 dress is exciting and rejuvenating. The striking colours have a similar resemblance to a stained glass offertory in an ancient church. Wear as a neat round-necked dress, or undo a button or two at the neckline to create a flattering V-neck shape neckline. This dress drops just above the knee and perfectly compliments the long, cuffed sleeves and the subtle ruffled detail around the shoulders and bust help to accentuate a feminine shape. Helen Steele’s label is full of vibrant colours and modern design, and her commitment to sustainability is evident throughout her collections.

Plunging cobalt at Cult Gaia

Willow dress in cobalt, €682 at cultgaia.com

Make a splashing entrance in this deep V-neck, striking cobalt blue, button-down dress by LA brand Cult Gaia. Billowing sleeves that can be seen from the back of the church and full-length silhouette make this dress an appealing choice for church services like christenings and weddings. Post service, undo a handful of buttons from the hemline up to create a subdued slit to take this dress from alter to afters.

High shine at Topshop Boutique

Elastic neck satin maxi dress by Boutique, €155 at topshop.com

Do glamour the modern way in this lilac satin maxi dress from Topshop Boutique. With an elasticated neckline that softly gathers, this gorgeous design features a contrasting black flowing waist tie that elegantly drapes down the back of the dress and oversized sleeves that cover up without being too conservative or traditional. Then again, is there anything traditional about 100% purple silk? Pair with simple open-toe sandals or a comfortable wedge and delicate silver earrings.

Old world meets new at The Frankie Shop

White button-down midi dress, €118 at thefrankieshop.com

Darts and pleating are given a modern update in this grown-up, button-down midi dress by New York-based design house The Frankie Shop. Puff balloon sleeves give this delicate, feminine dress a contemporary feel, while front contrasting dark tortoiseshell buttons take this dress from Little House on The Prairie to the front row at fashion week. Pair with simple makeup and a bright red lip for minimal effort and maximum impact.