Wimbledon has been the breeding ground for iconic fashion moments for longer than Federer’s reign as grass-court number one. Even when the weather falters and the covers are sprinted with impeccable speed and precision, the two week tennis championship is an occasion to dress up for.

With international appeal, the glamour of Wimbledon draws in the biggest celebrity names (this was the ground where Bradley Cooper and Gerard Butler’s bromance was formed) as well as returning royals.

Kate Middleton has been a regular feature on Centre Court as long Nadal has been picking out his wedgies, and as such has become accustomed to dressing for the occasion. Today the royal gave us all a lesson in summer dressing and reminded us of the tremendous power of the perfect white dress. 

It’s a hard nut to crack a summer white dress, (which is why this season we have opted for black) especially when it comes to an occasion. Because an occasion means you can’t just throw on the white summer dress that you’ve been wafting around Ibiza in, oh no: this has to be more considered, more special and (preferably) more weighted. 

Which is why it’s hats off to Kate, because she’s just nailed it.

For today’s special occasion Kate chose Marylebone-based boutique designer, Suzannah, for her appearance at the tennis. Form-fitting but free-flowing where necessary, buttoned down to give an element of detail and with elegant but fashion-forward puffed sleeves, this dress ticks all the boxes. And, bonus, it’s a midi dress – the universally flattering length on every body.

Kate chose to wear hers with a tidy yet sweet Alexander McQueen bow belt, black pointed suede court shoes, a monochrome bag and a pair of classic Rayban sunglasses for good measure. But it has collective appeal, as this kind of white dress can be re-purposed for all occasion: think tan sandals and raffia bag for relaxed summer evenings, trainers and a cross body for a day time event or make like Kate and bring in dark accessories to give a white dress a glamorous do-over.

Shop five of the best white occasion dresses here and put your stamp on it for the season.

Images: Getty / Courtesy of brands