Kate Middleton's four essential items she carries in her handbag -including nifty tool

The Princess of Wales, who is known for her enviable fashion sense, has a much more practical approach when it comes to what she carries in her handbag as an expert has revealed she only takes four important items with her when she's out and about.

Kate Middleton has had an undeniable influence on the fashion industry since she officially joined the Royal Family back in 2011.

The Princess of Wales, who is known for her sustainability efforts as she often re-wears her favourite outfits, mixes a blend of high-end pieces with affordable high-street staples, to great effect.

The mum-of-three also boasts a seriously enviable handbag collection from beautiful envelope clutches that she carries during more glamorous events to the classic designs of Mulberry and Aspinal of London which she often opts for in the daytime.

While it's clear that Kate takes pride in her fashion and co-ordinating her accessories with outfits, when it comes to the contents of her designer handbags, she takes a far more practical approach, the Mirror reports.

According to royal author Marcia Moody in her book Kate: A Biography, the 42-year-old only takes four essential items out with her for her public engagements and they are all very practical items.

The first is blotting paper, a clever tool that allows you to reduce oil or sweat on your face when you are on the go.

Kate keeps the sheets on hand to ensure she is always camera-ready when she arrives at events according to the royal expert.

Next is another essential item that is found in many women's handbags and helps Kate keep up her reputation of never having a hair out of place - a compact mirror, MamaMia reports.

The third item that Kate does not leave the house without is a trusty old lip balm to make sure her lips are always moisturised.

Finally, the future Queen always carries a handkerchief, to make sure she isn't caught out by a rogue sneezing fit and whether you opt for a cloth handkerchief or a handy pack of tissues, it's something most people have tucked away in their handbags.

Kate has not carried out any public engagements this year as she is currently undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy after announcing to the world she had been diagnosed with cancer last month.

The Princess of Wales has taken a step back from her royal duties for the time being until her medical team advise that she is fit to return to work.

The 42-year-old broke the news in an emotional video message which was broadcasted on the BBC as she announced her diagnosis and explained her treatment plan.

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Kate said: "We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space, and privacy while I complete my treatment.

"My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now, I must focus on making a full recovery."

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