Will Kate Middleton Wear Lauren Conrad's Label In California?

Since Kate Middleton made a point of wearing Canadian designs during the first leg of the Duke and Duchess North American tour, we can probably expect to see her wearing local designers while in California, beginning this Friday.

Business Insider speculated about which California-based brands might get a royal endorsement. Factoring in planned outdoor activities, the article predicted that James Perse might be on the shortlist - the L.A.-based designer of luxurious loungewear and cotton separates is a favorite among Hollywood A-listers.

More surprising was the suggestion that Lauren Conrad's Paper Crown line could be a contender - assuming Middleton is a secret 'Hills' fan. Monarch reference aside, it's true that Paper Crown designs themselves do seem to capture Middleton's taste - but would Kate stoop that lowbrow? And does Conrad really need any more exposure?

Reasoning that Rodarte might be a little adventurous for Middleton's taste, Business Insider predicted that the Duchess would turn to Monique Lhuillier for red carpet appearances like that BAFTA fundraiser.

We think that's as good a guess as any, and particularly love Lhullier's 'Sunset Ombre Chiffon Strapless Ruched Gown' for the Duchess. But secretly, we're hoping Kate might opt for a designer just slightly under the radar, and let loose a bit more than she usually does - after all, how often is she going to be in sunny, laid-back Los Angeles?

We would love to see Middleton in Corey Lynn Calter's daytime separates or casual evening wear - perhaps to watch her Prince compete in the Foundation Polo Challenge at the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club.

A gown by Les Habitudes would give the Duchess a slightly more dramatic, gothic look than she normally goes for, but would flatter both her figure and a storied romantic sensibility that is conjured by royalty.

A Tadashi gown would be a bit lighter and more youthful - we could see Kate in the Foiled Silk Chiffon Flutter Sleeve V-Neck Gown, or the Tiered Silk Organza and Mini-Pailette Strapless Gown from his Spring 2011 collection.

Whichever lucky designer the Duchess chooses, she will no doubt look fabulous.

[Source: Business Insider]