Kate Middleton channels Jackie Kennedy in iconic 1960s mini dress

For many royal watchers, the Princess of Wales, Catherine is a defining modern style icon. 

But a look back at her 2016 wardrobe suggests her fashion inspiration came from a timeless source — Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

During that year, Kate frequently embraced silhouettes and details reminiscent of the 1960s, a style era closely associated with Jackie Kennedy.

One standout moment came in October 2016, when Kate visited the Mauritshuis. She wore a sky-blue Catherine Walker suit featuring a belted waist, structured collar and statement buttons — a look widely seen as a nod to Jackie O’s polished aesthetic.

Fashion experts say the influence was no coincidence. The release of the 2016 biographical film Jackie, starring Natalie Portman, helped spark a revival of 1960s fashion trends, including tailored dresses, bold prints and classic accessories.

Kate echoed this influence across several appearances. At the Heads Together launch in London, she paired a geometric skirt with a crisp blouse, while during a Canadian tour with Prince William, she opted for a color-blocked navy ensemble.

She also incorporated subtle mid-century patterns into a white dress at the premiere of A Street Cat Named Bob.

Observers note that 2016 marked a turning point in Kate’s style, as she blended vintage inspiration with modern tailoring. 

By reinterpreting Jackie Kennedy’s signature elegance, the princess crafted a look that felt both nostalgic and distinctly her own.