Get the celebrity look
Back in February, Hollywood starlet Kate Hudson hit the headlines when she was handed the coveted Style Icon of the Year award by fashion magazine Elle. But those in the know have been keeping a close eye on Kate's signature style ever since she was catapulted to stardom by her role in 2000's Almost Famous.
Indeed, Kate's penchant for hippie chic and laid-back separates makes her effortless style an easy look to copy. It's all about looking and feeling relaxed - but still knowing when and how to up the glamour factor.
Her secret? 'I like to mismatch,' she says. 'I like a look that's not too thought out. But I'm really bad at choosing bags. I can't stand it if my bag matches my shoes. It feels too conservative.'
Even when she's going for glam, Kate remembers to add those personal touches that make a look her own. Over recent months, we've seen her in a floor-skimming green John Galliano gown for the London premiere of her latest movie, Fool's Gold; a glittering gold Dior frock at the Baftas, accessorised with on-trend gold bangles; and yet another showstopping white gown with keyhole detail for the Elle Style Awards.
Away from the red carpet, however, Kate opts for a much more dressed-down, just-got-back-from-the-beach style. She loves bright colours - cobalt blue and purple are her current favourites - but insists she isn't a dedicated follower of fashion, preferring to create her own personal look instead.
Fancy copying Kate's dressed-down style? Try Urban Outfitters (www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk) for Kate-style vests and tops in bright colours and quirky designs. While Gap is great for everyday basics such as plain vests, jeans and sweat tops, similar to the ones Kate wears for stateside shopping trips and days out with son Ryder.
Of course, it also helps to have friends and family in high places. Kate is close friends with Stella McCartney, and can often be seen sporting the designer's latest creations. And no prizes for guessing who Kate's ultimate style icon is: it's her mum, actress Goldie Hawn.
