Prince George melted hearts around the world when he arrived for Princess Charlotte's christening in an adorable white smocked shirt with red shorts, almost identical to the outfit that Prince William wore when he first met baby Prince Harry in 1984. Now the designer behind the sweet ensemble, Rachel Riley, has revealed why she takes inspiration from the royals for her adorable children's clothing line.
Prince George wore an outfit almost identical to Prince William's for Princess Charlotte's christening
"I look at old pictures of William and Harry as boys because the outfits are beautiful and a wonderful inspiration," she told The Mail on Sunday.
The 52-year-old credits Princess Diana for the princes' adorable outfits, admitting that the fashion icon's personal style also shined through in what her children wore.
Click here for more of Prince George's adorable outfits
"Princess Diana had a great sense of style," said Rachel. "She was a nursery teacher so was a natural with children and knew how to dress them. She dressed William and Harry in clothes that are appropriate for children.
"They were comfortable and classic and, being from a traditional family, I think Diana understood the need for the Princes to be properly dressed. Diana loved fashion and she wore everything so well."
Princess Diana inspires Rachel Riley when she designs her children's line
The designer also revealed she had spotted some similarities between the way Princess Diana and the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton, dressed their children.
"Diana dressed Prince William in a very traditional way, even more traditional than Kate does with Prince George," she said. "George always looks gorgeous, too. His clothing is very classic but suitable for today, that’s the look they are trying to achieve. It’s a more modern version of William’s look when he was a little boy."
Admitting that sales have soared since Prince George stepped out in the £85 ensemble from her line, which sold out within hours of being identified, Rachel revealed that she had no idea the little royal would be wearing her designs.
"I don't get any advance warning that Prince George will be wearing my clothes, although I do know when pieces have been ordered," she admitted. "Of course it's a great honour that they have chosen to dress George in so many of my outfits, it makes me very proud."