
I tried Rixo's new summer collection - these are the dresses Kate Middleton would love
Known for favouring feminine silhouettes and vibrant colours, Kate has worn the brand on multiple occasions - and with the latest collection, it wouldn't be a surprise to see her reach for another piece soon.
To experience the range up close, I visited Rixo's flagship store on King's Road - a destination in itself, complete with a cocktail bar, coffee counter, bridal suite and in-house alterations service.
Naturally, I couldn't resist trying on a few highlights from the new launch, along with some of the brand's most-loved classics.
The four dresses I chose feel distinctly like Kate: elegant, flattering and polished - ideal for the season ahead.
Marigold Silk Midi Dress
Honestly, I'm completely taken with every detail of this silk crepe de chine dress.
The vibrant cerulean blue and playful polka dots instantly caught my eye, and slipping it on felt incredible - the cinched waist and flouncy skirt give it a real sense of glamour.
The neck tie is a lovely detail, offering the flexibility to style it either at the front with a bow or at the back for a more subtle finish.
With its timeless print and sophisticated fit, I can see this dress seamlessly slotting into the Princess of Wales' wardrobe.
£455 Shop
Amina Midi Dress
I've heard this silhouette is a favourite of the Rixo co-founder, Orlagh McCloskey – and it certainly lives up to the hype.
Expertly cut to flatter the figure, this frock features a delicate pansy print and a lace trim that enhances its feminine charm.
The three-quarter length sleeves provide just the right amount of coverage, making it as practical as it is pretty.
I can easily picture Princess Kate wearing this dress to the Chelsea Flower Show, where it would suitably complement the event.
£265 Shop
Edina Cotton Maxi Dress
As a lace enthusiast, this dress was an instant addition to my wish list.
Crafted from airy cotton-voile, the design is light and breathable, making it perfect for warmer weather.
The intricate embroidery adds a layer of sophistication, and it's even more stunning up close - every detail is thoughtfully designed to elevate the piece.
Balancing structure and softness, the oversized collar makes a statement, while the adjustable ties allow for a flexible fit.
It's a dress Kate would likely style with her go-to Castaner espadrilles at a summer polo match.
£285 Shop
Lotta Midi Dress
Nautical-inspired looks have long been a staple in Kate's wardrobe, reflecting her affinity for timeless maritime style.
This vintage-inspired design, with its blouson sleeves and skimming skirt, feels like a piece she would be drawn to.
The dress is cut on the bias, ensuring a flawless drape that moves beautifully with every step.
Meanwhile, the satin tie-neck adds a luxurious touch, turning what could be a simple detail into a real showstopper.
It's the well-balanced blend of classic and contemporary, ideal for Kate's refined yet approachable style.
£295 Shop
The flagship Rixo store on King's Road is a destination in itself, complete with a cocktail bar, coffee counter, bridal suite and in-house alterations service
Rixo's vintage-inspired prints are in a league of their own, striking the perfect balance between High Street accessibility and high-end appeal.
The brand drops small, considered collections at the start of each month, featuring exclusive hand-designed prints, patterns and embroidery created in their London studio.
These limited-run pieces are pitched as forever wardrobe heroes – and they certainly look the part.
Inclusivity is also at the heart of Rixo's ethos, with most styles available in sizes 6 to 26 and thoughtfully cut to flatter a range of body shapes.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Daily Record
a day ago
- Daily Record
Princess Kate set to continue beloved birthday tradition for Prince George's 12th celebration
Princess Kate will be preparing to celebrate her son Prince George's 12th birthday on Tuesday - and the future Queen will be doing something very special the night before Princess Kate is mere days away from participating in a delightful tradition she previously admitted she "loves". The Princess of Wales, 43, will be marking her eldest son Prince George 's birthday on Tuesday, as the young prince reaches 12. Whilst the family's private celebration plans remain under wraps, supporters can likely predict what Kate will be up to the night before. This stems from the future Queen previously disclosing a cherished annual ritual she performs ahead of her three children's birthdays. During her appearance on Mary Berry's 'A Berry Royal Christmas' in 2019, Prince William's spouse revealed she personally creates birthday cakes for Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis each year. The princess is understood to have a passion for baking and frequently burns the midnight oil crafting cakes for her offspring, establishing this as a beloved custom, reports the Express. She confided to Mary Berry: "I love making the cake." "It's become a bit of a tradition that I stay up 'til midnight with ridiculous amounts of cake mix and icing and I make far too much. But I love it." Whether the princess extends this baking tradition to her husband Prince William, 43, for his special day remains unclear. Whilst the family are presently savouring their summer break, they'll probably release a fresh photograph of George to publicly commemorate his milestone. The Prince and Princess of Wales maintain this annual practice for each of their children's birthdays, bringing immense joy to Royal enthusiasts. In May, a delightful snapshot of Princess Charlotte on a family stroll was unveiled to commemorate her 10th birthday. The previous month, an adorable photo of Prince Louis, sans front teeth, was circulated in honour of his seventh birthday.


Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Scottish Sun
The up-and-coming English seaside town with beachfront hotels, viral Kate Bush event and new ‘open-air art' trails
Launching today is the Folkestone Triennial, a huge open-air art exhibition that takes place every three years THAT'S NOT ALL, FOLKES THAT'S NOT ALL, FOLKES The up-and-coming English seaside town with beachfront hotels, viral Kate Bush event and new 'open-air art' trails Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WHAT do Kate Bush and Folkestone have in common? Absolutely nothing — apart from one day of the year when nearly 1,000 red dress-clad Kate fans descend on the town to celebrate the singer. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 The lighthouse cool bar Credit: Alamy 5 Participants celebrate Wuthering Heights day Credit: PA 5 The town's scenic harbour Credit: Alamy Called The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever, the unusual event has been running in the Kent town since 2023 and kicks off at midday today on the harbour front. It's certainly a sight to behold — men and women throwing their arms in the air, dancing to the famous Wuthering Heights song. But even non-Kate Bush fans will find themselves being swayed into the joy of Folkestone, with or without the bold outfits. Launching today is the Folkestone Triennial, a huge open-air art exhibition that takes place every three years. It features 70 pieces of artwork, including works by Tracy Emin, Banksy and Antony Gormley. Chased by oysters One of my favourite spots is the beautiful Lighthouse Bar inside a former lighthouse. Look up and you will see 'Weather is a Third to Place and Time,' painted on the side, a leftover piece from the 2014 Triennial. Look even further and you might glimpse France. It's not a place for sitting indoors — there are barely more than a couple of tables. Instead grab one of the benches lining the harbour. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival There is no better feeling than having the sea breeze blow past, and watching errant paddleboarders while sipping a glass of champagne chased by oysters. I'm surrounded by city dwellers (dubbed DFLers — Down From Londoners) who are all exclaiming how surprised they are by the town. Lighthouse Bar owner Simon explained to me: 'We were told we were mad to open in Folkestone ten years ago — now look at us.' Folkestone is certainly becoming one of those places being mentioned as the 'next big thing'. Often aligned with other Kent seaside destinations Whitstable and Margate, the train from the capital in less than an hour makes it an easy day-trip destination. Most tourists will flock straight to the Harbour Arm, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. Lined with shipping containers serving food and drink, every summer there are new additions to the complex. My favourite new stall this year is The Mompling House, serving Nepalese snacks with juicy steamed momo dumplings and aloo chops, a spiced potato croquette. Folkestone isn't short of fantastic restaurants either. There's the award-winning Rocksalt, serving up fresh seafood while overlooking the harbour. Or new this year is Pomus, a restaurant that opened earlier this month after success in Margate. But my favourite spot is Marley's, an unassuming place from the outside that offers a small, farm-to-table menu inside (be sure to try the zesty pan-fried sea bass). 5 The town's quaint, quirky shops Credit: Alamy 5 When the booze and food becomes too much, the best place for some respite is The London & Paris Hotel Credit: Alamy It's one you'll need to make reservations for, as it is always full of locals, but it's one that's worth the wait. You can barely turn a corner without spotting a bar here. I inadvertently ended up doing my own drinks crawl, after being tempted inside many of them. Two must-visits are Burrito Buoy for their frozen margaritas, or The Beer Shop Folkestone, which serves up local craft beers. When the booze and food becomes too much, the best place for some respite is The London & Paris Hotel. First opened in 1853 to cater for travellers heading across the Channel, it fell into disrepair before a multi-million-pound renovation in 2023 saw it reopen as an 11-room hotel. Each of the rooms has a sea view, all with modern coastal chic decor — think blue striped walls and floral patterned pillows. It felt like my head barely touched the pillow of my extremely plush king-size bed before I was woken up to the sound of seagulls. A tap on the door heralds the arrival of breakfast, a cute hamper with fresh croissants, juice and fruit And being so close to town, my early awakening also meant I was able to make the most of the peace and quiet before the crowds came in for the day. I filled my bag with souvenirs from the Creative Quarter, the famous multi-coloured, steep street peppered with locally run shops. But after all that eating and drinking, you won't see me Running Up That Hill.


NBC News
a day ago
- NBC News
Family of West Virginia mom Melanie Metheny, who vanished 19 years ago, works to change how missing persons cases are handled
In 2005, Catherine Moles hosted a family cookout. Her niece, Melanie Metheny, brought her 3-year-old son Ryan. Catherine remembers Melanie trailing after him around the event and 'doting' on him. 'She followed him everywhere,' Catherine told Dateline. 'She was just very, very watchful of him. She was very protective.' That was one of the last times Catherine ever saw her niece. The 21-year-old vanished on July 19, 2006. Catherine remembers Melanie as the cautious, animal-loving mom whose kids were her entire world. So when Melanie disappeared about a year later and people started to wonder if she had just run off, Catherine says she knew better. 'There's no way that that lady would have left any of her children,' she said. In March of 2006, Melanie wrote a tribute to her children that was later found among her belongings. Titled 'The Best Things in My Life,' the opening line reads, 'My whole life revolves around my three kids.' She then gushes about Ryan and his younger brother and sister, Nathan and Hannah, individually. 'Being a single mom is not easy at all but watching my kids grow up and watching them learn new things for the first time is the greatest feeling I've ever had,' she closed in the tribute. 'I would not change them for the world and I don't know where I'd be right now if I didn't have them but I know my life wouldn't have as much meaning.' Debi told Dateline Melanie wanted to give her kids the best childhood they could have, because hers had been tumultuous, bouncing back and forth between her divorced parents' homes. She had run away multiple times as a teenager, but would always come back. According to her mother, Melanie turned her life around when she got pregnant with Ryan at 16. While Catherine remembers Melanie as a quiet girl, Debi saw a different side of her. She says Melanie was outgoing, loved to be the center of attention, and would always sing and dance. She fondly remembers a 5-year-old Melanie working hard to learn the lyrics to 'Three Little Fishies' so she could perform it for her grandfather. While Debi and Catherine may have seen different parts of Melanie's personality, the sisters agree she never would have run off and left her children behind. 'Once she had those kids, she wasn't going anywhere,' Debi said. July 19, 2006, began like any other day for Melanie. She dropped off her two youngest children at Country Kids Daycare in Belle, West Virginia. Ryan spent that day with his paternal grandparents. Dateline spoke with Larry Dodson, a retired captain of the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office, who still works part-time at its detective bureau. He says that after dropping off her kids, Melanie drove to a friend's house nearby, and then allegedly planned to head to Garnet Career Center to pick up some transcripts to bring to West Virginia State University. 'She wanted to be a nurse, or OB-GYN, or something to do with kids. That's just pretty much who she was,' Debi Daniel said. Melanie never made it to the career center, nor did she return to the daycare to pick up her children. 'To my knowledge, that was Melanie who was supposed to pick them up, and when she didn't, that initiated all this,' Dodson told Dateline. He says Melanie was reported missing by her father at 11:18 p.m. The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office began searching for Melanie immediately, and a BOLO for her van was issued to local departments. Tips began flooding in. Dodson says they received so many tips that he 'doesn't have a clue' as to the full amount, but says investigators pursued each one. Four days into the investigation, a tip came in to police that a vehicle had been found on the West Side of Charleston, West Virginia, where it had been parked for several days. It was Melanie's van. 'There was no indication of anything out of the ordinary in the van, and we took it into custody,' Dodson said. He also told Dateline that the only fingerprints on the van were Melanie's and her boyfriend's, both of whom used it regularly. Dodson says the location of Melanie's car sparked some interest for the police. 'We were kind of like, 'Why in the world would her van be where it was?'' he said. Ultimately, the van didn't give the police much to go on, so they focused on other tips. Bill Daniel, Melanie's stepfather, told Dateline the police have been extremely dedicated to Melanie's case. 'They've been fantastic,' he said. 'They follow up on every lead that comes in and everything.' Larry Dodson elaborated on some of the investigative efforts. 'We've pursued leads about possible drug involvement, we pursued leads with local people that she was involved with, we pursued leads to the state of Maryland and up to D.C.,' he said. 'They even pursued leads on several states along the East Coast, about alleged sightings, and all of them — nothing.' Dodson says several persons of interest have been investigated. 'Some of them were cleared and some of them could possibly still be persons of interest.' He would not comment further on potential persons of interest but did confirm that foul play is suspected in Melanie's disappearance. 'We're still getting tips and getting calls on to check here, to check there,' Dodson said. 'I mean, it's not an everyday thing, but we still get tips to follow up on.' The department does not consider Melanie's case to be cold and is still hoping to provide her family the answers they need. 'I don't know if you can give closure where you can't even tell what happened or where they are or if they're still alive,' Dodson said. 'The family's always going to wonder.' Debi Daniel says that wondering — that not knowing — has created a great deal of stress. 'It just deteriorates your health — your mental health, your physical health.' She told Dateline that before her daughter disappeared, people always remarked on her smile. 'I would be the person that people would say, 'I want to smack you because you're always smiling,'' she said. 'Now I hardly smile anymore.' Debi still has a hard time talking about what happened to Melanie, which is why she rarely agrees to be interviewed about it. 'My mind just totally goes blank when it comes to talking about it. I don't know if it's a survival mechanism, or something,' she said. 'My mind just totally goes blank.' Of course, that doesn't mean she has forgotten Melanie. And the community hasn't either. Melanie's is the oldest missing persons case in Kanawha County. In 2016 — one decade after her disappearance — a tree was planted in Melanie's honor at Coonskin Park in Charleston. It is an Autumn Gold Ginkgo Biloba, which is known for its strength and resilience and has come to symbolize hope. It is also known for its brilliant yellow leaves. 'Yellow is the color for missing persons,' Debi explained. 'And so we chose that tree mainly because of what it represented — the different representations of the tree — but also that in fall, the leaves are yellow.' Melissa's aunt, Catherine Moles, lives near the park and frequently visits the tree to take care of it. 'Every time I'm around the tree, I think of Melanie,' she said. 'There's just probably just too much to really remember — every time I visit, something new comes to mind.' Catherine is the administrator of a Facebook group called ' West Virginia Missing ' that she updates regularly with information on local missing persons. Inspired to help the families of other missing persons, in 2014 she began working to create a bill that was eventually sponsored by State Senator Glenn Jeffries. In 2019, the West Virginia Missing Persons Act became law. 'It basically defines what role, what information is needed to be collected, if possible,' Catherine said. 'And the most important thing was that a missing person's information was to be entered into the [National Missing and Unidentified Person System] database. That was my main goal.' The bill also advocated for stronger police-to-family communication during a missing persons investigation. Catherine told Dateline that Melanie was with her every step of the way through the bill's creation. Now she's working on drafting a new piece of legislation that protects the property of missing persons so they don't lose their property because of missed payments while they were missing. 'Sometimes these missing people are found and they don't want to come back to find out that they're homeless because their home was repo-ed,' Catherine said, adding that she wants to protect their estate for the missing and their heirs. She is hopeful that legislation of this kind will help locate some of the missing and provide some measure of peace to other families. Peace their family is still waiting for. Melanie's children are now in their early twenties, roughly the same age their mother was when she disappeared in 2006. Hannah has a little girl of her own now. The 1-year-old has strawberry-blonde hair just like her mother — and just like the grandmother she never met. At the time of her disappearance, Melanie Metheny was 5'3' and weighed 100 lbs., with strawberry-blonde hair and brown eyes. She would be 40 years old today. Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to contact the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office at 304-357-0200.