It made me laugh a little bit, the selection of coats that Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, wore on her official visits to the North East of England this week. Three coats, all in shades of dull, belted from her own personal belt collection, and paired with black suede — boots or shoes. And the hair. The hair. All curls clustering around the collars of the coats.

Which is not to say that she didn't look great. She did. She looked absolutely fine. Chic and elegant and  appropriate and, as ever, as if she is having the very best time in the world. Especially when interacting with the kids. She was a triumph.

It's just that there really isn't anything for us to get excited about. We have seen these coats before. I almost think that Kate has more coats than she does dresses. And the rich berry colours, while they look lovely on her, are not very modern, if you know what I mean. They all look a bit like she has had the coats for a few seasons. Like they are in other seasons' shades. Which they all are.

So it was a relief that on a night out in that black jacket, Kate dragged her sister Pippa Middleton along. Pippa who wore a bright orange patterned mini dress, with cinch-it-in belt and cropped military jacket and brown ankle boots. Not exactly the most sophisticated ensemble, but at least it is youthful and authentic, adding a bit of interest to the whole shebang. Thanks P-Middy.