Kate Middleton wears two year old Whistles blouse for official engagement photos

The two pictures, shot by Mario Testino shortly after the public announcement of their engagement, show Middleton in two premium high street brands; both outfits perfect examples of luxurious, but accessible, good taste. In the first, the 28 year old wears her own Whistles blouse from the brand's first collection under the stewardship of Jane Shepherdson. The 100% silk blouse is two years old, and would have cost between £60-70.

The second picture shows Middleton in a well cut 'Nanette' dress from Reiss's current core collection, with Links of London earrings; both accessible British labels that show she is taking care to support British fashion without being too ostentatious in a time of austerity. Reiss Brand Director Andy Rogers is delighted with her choice:

"I take it as a real endorsement of the British brand- she went for a premium British brand, rather than a British designer. I think that's important; she could have gone for any designer in the world. I think she went for us because it meant she was able to wear something luxurious, something of a good quality, that's appropriate for the current climate."

The dress will be available again at the end of January, when 600 dresses will replenish the sold out stock. The Whistles blouse is also to be reissued to allow customers to emulate Kate Middleton's engagement outfit, and re-christened 'Kate' in her honour. A Whistles spokesman said today: "we are delighted that Katherine has chosen to wear Whistles in her engagement photographs. Whistles is known for its vintage inspired silk blouses which are currently best sellers in its stores. Due to a surge of customer interest we will be re-releasing the ‘Kate’ blouse as a limited edition in early 2011."

W