Kate Middleton is an English fashion icon who became popular for being the girlfriend of Prince William of Wales. Kate Middleton gained celebrity status after she was seen together with the Prince by the paparazzi beginning in 2001. Kate Middleton has accompanied Prince William on various trips and special events, and since then she has been covered by various magazines and programs for her keen fashion style.

In 2006, Kate Middleton was announced to receive her own 24-hour security detail from the Royalty and Diplomatic Protection Department, in preparation for her upcoming engagement to Prince William. However, the security protection didn’t take place as the engagement didn’t push through. Kate Middleton and the Prince continued with their relationship, and she was present as an official royal guest in his Passing Out Parade in December of the same year.

In 2007, Kate Middleton and Prince William were reported to have parted ways, according to The Sun newspaper. They however later reconciled but still have no plans to marry. Kate Middleton was present at various official events, such as the Concert for Diana at the Wembley Stadium, and in a deerstalking expedition in Balmoral. Kate Middleton also attended the wedding of Prince William’s cousin, Peter Phillips. In 2008, Kate Middleton was present at Prince William’s investiture into the Order of the Garter together with the Royal Family.

A professional accessories buyer, Kate Middleton has been featured on various best dressed lists by magazines and publications. Kate Middleton was hailed as “Most Promising Newcomer” in Telegraph’s 2006 list of style winners and losers. The Tatler meanwhile ranked Kate Middleton #8 on their list of top ten style icons in 2007. Kate Middleton was later featured in People Magazine’s Best Dressed List in 2007, and was named as one of the ten Fabulous Fashion Independents of 2007 by Richard Blackwell. In June 2008, Kate Middleton was named a style icon by Vanity Fair.