How Kate’s Style Is Getting Sexier

She’s known for choosing classic silhouettes, neutral pumps and longer hemlines, but the Duchess of Cambridge has shown a sexy streak this week at official events with husband Prince William.

How so?

• Rocking that slit. For a private dinner on Tuesday, Kate chose a flattering white Roland Mouret dress (left). But the real “wow” factor came from the gown’s sexy slit, exposing the demure Duchess’s hose-less legs like never before; even her most dazzling gowns, like this Alexander McQueen, have kept her quite covered.

•Showing some skin. Kate stunned again on Friday, this time choosing a teal Jenny Packham creation (right) for the BOA Olympic Concert event at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

This dress, fairly conservative at first glance, also held a sexier secret: a button-up lace back. In the past, when wearing outfits that expose a bit more, she’s often covered up with a cardigan or blazer.

• Working a plunging neckline. Kate’s Packham gown also dipped much lower in front than her usual V-necks, including the famous Issa dress she wore the day she announced her engagement.

•Wearing open-toed shoes. It doesn’t seem like a big deal, but Kate’s glimmering sky-high Jimmy Choo sandals – worn to both events – are against palace norms: both the Queen and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall make a habit of wearing low-heeled, closed-toe heels.

Kate herself has generally worn her favorite nude L.K. Bennett pumps, or similarly subtle styles.

Could Kate’s sexier style mean a modern move for the Palace? Or is she just coming into her own a year into her life as a royal? What do you think of the Duchess’s latest dresses?