kate middleton

The very sweet story behind Kate Middleton's new designer handbag purchase

The Duchess has returned to royal duties

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Acting Fashion and Beauty Editor
September 16, 2021

The Duchess of Cambridge looked elegant as ever as she returned to work following her summer break on Wednesday, and didn't disappoint with her chic outfit choice, either.

Looking beautiful in her Reiss blazer, wide-leg navy trousers and a Goat blouse, it was Kate's new arm candy that caught the eye of many royal fashion fans.

MORE: Kate Middleton's school run dress is so famous, it's been named after her

It appears that the Duchess has been handbag shopping over the summer, since she carried a gorgeous new top-handle piece from artisan British label Tusting - and there's a sweet story behind the brand.

WATCH: Kate returns to work with moving visit

Kate's new mini bag - seemingly her favourite at the moment - is the 'Holly' style from the accessories house, and sweetly, it was designed to mimic the style of another royal icon, Grace Kelly.

Kate looked stunning in her smart neutrals

The description reads: "With looks to die for and a seriously high cute factor, this classic small handbag was inspired by the 1950s top-handled styles made famous by icons like Grace Kelly and Jackie Onassis."

READ: 15 sweet photos of Michael Middleton with Kate, Pippa and James

What's more, we bet Kate was taken by the story behind Tusting, which prides itself on its British heritage, local production and sustainable principles.

SHOP KATE'S LOOK: Mini Holly bag, £295 / $343, Tusting

SHOP NOW

Dating back to shoemaking in the 1870s, the brand's history is pretty impressive, with its factory in Northampton dating back five generations. The bags are designed and made from start to finish in one place, using sustainable and luxurious leather.

READ: Kate Middleton's tiny sellout bag is back in a glorious winter colour

The brand adds: "TUSTING is a family business – not just in name, but in practice, too. Our business is run by members of the Tusting family and we're just as passionate about premium leather goods as our ancestors were about their leather."

SHOP KATE'S LOOK: Double-breasted blazer, £250 / $475, REISS

SHOP NOW

Sweetly, after Kate carried the bag in public, Tusting's Instagram account shared a snap of her taupe handbag, describing it as "our most regal bag".

One royal fan commented: "So good that the Duchess of Cambridge wore it!! Beautiful," to which the brand replied: "We still can't believe it." How lovely is that?

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