The style of Kate Middleton - Toronto Sun

Since she first came onto the scene in 2001, Kate Middleton has been winning over the hearts of the general public with her classy, chic and often understated style and appearance. The daughter of a middle-class family from Berkshire, England, Middleton seems most comfortable in causal attire that usually consists of cowboy boots, well-worn jeans and a form fitting t-shirt.

However, on occasion, and especially since her engagement to Prince William, Middleton has been wearing more tailored outfits that have elevated her status from girl next door to royal fashion icon. Though many fashion experts have speculated on how Middleton's simple yet elegant style will translate into her wedding day attire, there have been few hints leaked about exactly what she'll be wearing.

"Though it of course has not been confirmed, it is widely speculated that Kate Middelton will be wearing a wedding dress designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, " says Alison McGill, editor in chief of WeddingBells magazine. "Burton just presented her second collection for the label as creative director and it was brimming with fantastic white gowns, dripping in details like rosettes, ruffles, feathers and organza."

Middleton first took notice of Burton's work in 2005 when she created an off-the-shoulder wedding gown for Sara Buys, a fashion journalist who married Tom Parker-Bowles, the son of her future stepmother-in-law, Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall.

Also a fan of designer Daniella "Issa" Helayel, Middleton tends to prefer wearing light, airy dresses that have a hem line that drop just slightly below the knee. Tailored blazers and cinch-waisted trench coats have also become her trademark, with minimal makeup and her long, auburn hair hanging around her shoulders. Though the exact design of her gown is still in question, there is little doubt that the dress Middleton dons on April 29th will be sophisticated and modern looking, with very little embellishment or bold flourishes.

"Regardless of who the designer is, I think we will definitely see Kate's modern style imprint on her gown," says McGill. "There will almost definitely be some sort of sleeve, as royal brides typically err towards modesty when it comes to arms and dcollet."

Often referred to as "the understated showstopper," Middleton's wedding day attire is expected to consist of two separate wedding dresses. According to British outfitter, Bruce Oldfield, the wedding gown will be a classic and simple design, while the dress she changes into for the reception will be a bit more youthful and full of flair.

As for accessories, Oldfield speculates that Middleton will chose to wear a veil in honour of the one Princess Diana wore on her own wedding day back in 1981.

"I think Kate will want a dress that's a fresh design, not overly fussy but also makes a statement," says McGill. "Kate Middleton's wedding dress will be one of the biggest fashion moments of this century and I [personally] can't wait to see what she wears!"