Carole Middleton elevates her monochrome outfit with striking patterned tights for a casual look we didn't expect from her

We’re taking style notes from a 2013 retro look from Carole MiddletonIt’s this winter, with her stunning monochrome outfit instantly enhanced by her choice of strikingly patterned tights.

Tights are an absolute must-have in every outfit. winter capsule wardrobeswith the cold winds of winter and gloomy, humid days requiring at least a little practicality from our outfits. But far from just being a seasonal staple, tights can take an outfit from simple and simple to oh-so-chic if you opt for patterned tights instead of classic opaque styles.

It might seem like this small change wouldn’t make much of a difference, but Carole Middleton proved just how big an impact patterned tights can have with her 2013 collection. Christmas outfit she wore to attend a Christmas carol service. Her tailored black coat, black heels, leather gloves and striking patterned tights created a look we love and one that we think could rival any of the most recent outfits she’s worn to attend. Princess Catherine is together at the Christmas carol service.

Carole Middleton attends a Christmas carol concert on December 4, 2013

Get the Carole Middleton look

M&S Lightweight Knit Fishnet Tights

Pour Moi 50 Denier Herringbone Tights

Diamond pattern shaping tights for buttocks, stomach and thighs

Black River Island Coat with Faux Fur Collar

Nordstrom Lambskin Gloves

Friends Love These Black Faux Suede Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pumps

If you don’t already have your Christmas party outfits chosen, Carole’s look is ideal to recreate, especially if you’re not a fan of the usual sequins, velvets and flowy dresses that the party season often brings.

This monochrome, sleek and sophisticated outfit is so stylish this time of year and feels incredibly wearable while incorporating fun touches like the coat’s fur collar, stylish leather gloves and, of course, patterned tights playful.

The rich black tones create a striking monochrome effect, with the crafted coat being comfortable and chic whilst keeping Carole warm. Although it’s simple in terms of silhouette and, we assume, she’s wearing a stunning evening dress underneath, the coat itself is a beautiful piece with the fur collar adding an elegant touch that frames the woman’s face. Carole.

With a pair of leather gloves and a matching leather handbag accessorizing the outfit, it was Carole’s patterned tights that took center stage. The fishnet texture and geometric floral pattern come together effortlessly and add a touch of interest. Imagine a pair of plain opaque tights in their place and Carole’s look just doesn’t have the same striking impact. It’s such a little styling tip that can transform your outfit and take it to a whole new level.

She kept her makeup and jewelry minimal, which contributed to the clean, monochrome style. Her choice of footwear was equally understated, with her opting for a pair of suede mule heels to complete the look. With no straps breaking up the pattern of the tights and with the pointed toe of the mules creating a sleek, classic shape, they were the perfect choice.