Kate Middleton Makes It on Vanity Fair’s Best-Dressed 2011 List

Not that it comes as any surprise, but the new Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton has just found a place on the Vanity Fair best-dressed international list for 2011. No word yet on which spot she’s landed.

Constantly praised for her unique, simple yet utterly elegant style, the Duchess leads the pack of fashion-savvy celebrities on the VF shortlist for the current year.

As noted above, her presence on the chart should surprise no one, since her recent public appearance have earned her raving reviews for her always-impeccable looks, even if she’s said never to hire a stylist, not even for the major events she’s attended.

“For the first time as a member of the British royal family, Kate Middleton makes her way onto the International Best-Dressed List – her inaugural appearance came in 2008, and a whirlwind of fashion successes since has earned her a nod this year,” Vanity Fair writes.

“She’s captivated the world with her signature mix of high and low fashion,” the publication further adds.

Fashion lover across the pond shouldn’t despair, though: they too have a first lady of fashion in the person of First Lady Michelle Obama, who has been a fixture on the best-dressed list for the past 4 years.

In 2011, she and Mr. Barack Obama also make a joint appearance on the Best-Dressed Couple chart.

Other famous faces from politics include Carla Bruni-Sarkozy (though her husband is nowhere to be seen) and the Princess of Monaco Charlene (whose better half is also not present).

“Meanwhile, from Hollywood’s royal ranks come actors Justin Timberlake, Colin Firth, and Armie Hammer – all first-time entrants – while actresses Carey Mulligan and Tilda Swinton are second-timers. (Swinton returns after a three-year hiatus.)” VF notes.

“Among the fashion originals, Lady Gaga (her second recognition) is joined by Janelle Monáe – and NBC News anchor Brian Williams enters the illustrious ranks of the list’s Hall of Fame,” the publication writes.

The complete list of best-dressed will most likely be published in full in the upcoming issue of Vanity Fair. See here for more on those who made the cut.