Kate Middleton Style Break Down: Hair and Clothes, Rarely Exciting? [PHOTOS]

Fashion experts form the USA Today break down every aspect of the Duchess of Cambridge's sense of style. The question is: is she a fashion icon or a mere royal who dresses well?

It is no denying that Kate Middleton is one of today's most fashionable public figures. From her shiny mane to her nude LK Bennet pumps, the Duchess has set a standard for "chic" and "elegant" with her looks. It is no surprise that fashion experts, Arienne Thompson and Olivia Barker, discussed the way Kate has been presenting herself in front of the cameras lately.

Royal Hair

The Duchess has always been prim and particular when it comes to her perfectly-blow dried hair. On trips, appearances, and tours abroad, Kate opts to bring a hairstylist with her so her hair will always look at its best.

"Those cascading chestnut locks are always perfectly curled, and they have a healthy sheen that would make even Rapunzel jealous." comments Arienne on the Duchess' mane.

"Could there be more captivating chestnut curls than Kate's? Blown out with just the right amount of bounce, the duchess' magnetic mane makes her a modern Breck girl. Wearing her locks long and loose, she keeps her look youthful." added Olivia, who's obviously in awe of Kate's hair.

Regal Clothes

Kate is known for her above-the-knee hem limit, simple tones, and sharp silhouettes. Some of her favorite designers include Reiss, Jenny Packham and Alexander McQueen, and she has been seen countless times in their creations. Although her choices may be elegant and decent, Thompson thinks the Duchess' overall style is far from exciting.

"Kate has the figure and height to pull off just about any look she likes, so it's a shame that, for the most part, she turns up in dresses that are flattering and pretty, but rarely very exciting." says Arienne in the same USA today post.

On the other hand, Olivia thinks Kate is presenting the right mix of trend and elegance in some of her stunning red carpet or high society event pieces.

"The colors are pretty without being predictable. In a word, the duchess' wardrobe, including the Roksanda Ilincic Peridot dress in which she greeted Los Angeles, is stacked with gems." writes Barker in the same report.

View the sldeshow to see some of the Duchess recent looks.