Back in September 2020, Vogue reported that Kate Middleton donned a belted denim dress by designer Gabriela Hearst during a meeting with Sir David Attenborough at Kensington Palace. Known as the Marley dress, it was part of the fashion brand’s pre-fall 2020 collection and can still be purchased from Mytheresa in a darker shade for a cool £1,225.

For those who find that a bit steep, there’s good news as Marks and Spencer has introduced a new style that bears a striking resemblance to the royal-approved choice – but at a fraction of the cost. The Denim Collared Zip Front Midi Waisted Dress is priced at £39.50 and comes in light blue denim similar to Kate’s outfit, or a dark black denim.

Crafted from pure cotton, it showcases a similar collar, waist-defining silhouette and midi-length skirt. It also features a modern twist, swapping buttons for a zip front through the bodice.

The long sleeves are gathered at the shoulder and cuff for a touch of volume, resulting in a finish that blends contemporary and classic styling.

The dress is available in sizes six to 24, but unlike some of Marks and Spencer’s designs, it only comes in a regular fit, not petite or tall. As it’s a new addition to the Marks and Spencer website, it hasn’t garnered any reviews yet, but if it’s anything like this similar Denim Midi Waisted Dress from M&S at the same price, it shouldn’t disappoint, reports the Mirror.

Discussing the Denim Midi Waisted Dress, one individual expressed their anticipation for ‘looking forward to wearing with boots, a winter coat and a lovely colourful scarf’, adding that it’s a ‘great dress to dress up or down’. This sentiment can also be extended to the Denim Collared Zip Front Midi Waisted Dress.

Kate chose to pair her dress with heeled court shoes for the special event, but we’re quite taken with the idea of teaming the Marks and Spencer denim dress with a lightweight jacket and boots. Given that the stylish midi is crafted from 100% cotton, it promises breathability, making it a perfect layering item for the autumn and winter seasons.

Alternatively, Kate has also been spotted in pieces by fashion label Reiss – the Elsa Belted Denim Midi Dress was originally priced at £228 but is now on sale for £108. For a more affordable high street alternative, consider the Jade Denim Shirt Dress from White Stuff. It’s been discounted from £79 to £32 and remains available in sizes six to 20.