Cate Blanchett has remixed the power suit countless times over her decades-long career, but looking at her fashion history, she’s seemingly partial to an oversized fit and some kind of fun twist on a classic silhouette and style. And as the Lord of the Rings alum joined a star-studded guest list at Buckingham Palace on February 18, she appeared to give subtle royal nod to Kate Middleton with a gray menswear-inspired look.
As National Theatre patron Queen Camilla hosted a party for the organization at her royal home on Tuesday, Blanchett opted for a pale slate power suit with a plunging neckline, a double-breasted design, and thick lapels. Complementing the wide-legged cut of her matching slacks, the Academy Award-winning actress’s blazer was hemmed a few inches past her hips, giving the whole ensemble an oversized, more relaxed feel.
Blanchett’s suit had a slightly reflective fabric with a subtle sheen that showed off an understated pinstriped design. The Carol actress wore her platinum hair in a sleek side-parted bob that showed off her gold stud earrings, and opted for elegant glam that accentuated her eyes, her cheekbones, and her lips.
Power suits are basically part of the royal uniform, thanks to Princess and trendsetter Kate Middleton’s track record of wearing corporate separates for her official engagements in recent years. While the Princess of Wales has historically leaned into a softer, more “country chic” style memo with tartan prints and dress coats, Kate has been bringing some CEO-core style elements into her wardrobe. Case in point: for Kate’s latest official engagement on February 4, she paired office-appropriate flared black-and-white pinstripe pants with an espresso-hued blazer as she launched a new initiative from The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
Kate wasn’t in attendance as Blanchett joined fellow stars like Andrew Garfield, James Corden, and Jim Carter at the Palace, along with two The Crown alums: Imelda Staunton, who played Queen Elizabeth, and Lesley Manville, who played Princess Margaret.