In a heartfelt homage to the late Queen Elizabeth II, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, adorned herself with meaningful pearl and diamond encrusted leaf earrings at the National Service of Remembrance. The earrings, once belonging to the Queen, added a significant touch to the somber occasion, as observed by royal fashion expert Miranda Holder.
Standing alongside Queen Camilla, Kate Middleton's ensemble for the service, held on Sunday, November 12, combined classic elegance with a nod to royal tradition. Holder, a celebrity stylist, highlighted the Princess's choice of a Catherine Walker & Co. coat dress, previously worn in 2019, noting its military-inspired details that resonated with the gravity of the event. "The sharp, structured shoulder, minimalist zip, and crisp collared high neckline all adding to the drama of the outfit," Holder explained to Newsweek.
The Princess complemented her attire with a black velvet hat, first seen at Prince William's Sandhurst military academy graduation in 2006, and her signature subtle smokey eye makeup. Yet, it was the pearl and diamond earrings that captured Holder's attention the most.
"The entire outfit was classic, timeless and could not have been more fitting. But perhaps the most striking feature of all were Kate's large pearl and diamond encrusted leaf earrings," she said.
This evening The King and Queen, The Prince and Princess of Wales and other members of the Royal Family attended the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall. #Remembrance #Remembrance2023 #FestivalofRemembrance pic.twitter.com/CMbLBDciuv — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) November 11, 2023
Pearls, traditionally worn by royals in times of mourning, symbolize tears, a custom dating back to Victorian times. Holder emphasized the significance of these earrings, "They once belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth, so were a touching way for Kate to honor the late monarch."
This respectful gesture extended beyond Remembrance Sunday. At the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance held at Royal Albert Hall, Kate further paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. She wore pearl drop earrings gifted to then-Princess Elizabeth in 1947 by the Hakim of Bahrain, pairing them with the Queen's favored three-strand pearl necklace.
Kate Middleton's sartorial choices at these events reflect not only her style but also her deep respect for royal traditions and her way of commemorating the late Queen Elizabeth II. Her attire and accessories, particularly the earrings, served as a poignant reminder of the legacy left behind by the Queen and the continuity of the monarchy.