Maybe it’s my semi-obsession with Baby Prince George (whose mum famously wore a gown by Sarah Burton, the designer of the Alexander McQueen label, when she walked down the aisle two years ago). Or maybe it’s the deeply imprinted memory of the ceremonial religious garb that was all around during my Catholic youth. Whatever the reason, this Alexander McQueen ensemble—new for Fall 2013—is resonating in a big way.

With its black-and-white scheme, long length, and old-worldy detail, it somehow manages to channel both Elizabethan-era royalty and priests’ cassocks. The blouse is silk cady; the skirt, a simple rayon/acetate crepe column with delicate edging and silk-chiffon underlay. And the peaked belt—made of cotton velvet—can be paired with just about anything in your closet.

Imagine yourself wearing this to a fall gala: Amid a sea of strapless ball gowns, you’d be the standout sophisticate. (You’d be warmer, too. Castles can get mighty cold.)

Price: Skirt, $3,875; belt (available for preorder), $595; blouse not yet priced (check website). Store: Neiman Marcus, 737 N. Michigan Ave, or neimanmarcus.com.