Princess Kate returned to public life this week, making two high-profile appearances alongside Prince William and their children during Britain's ceremonial season, including the historic Order of the Garter service and Trooping the Colour.
On Monday, the Princess of Wales, 43, joined senior royals at Windsor Castle for the Order of the Garter, her first attendance at the event since 2022. The annual ceremony at St. George's Chapel celebrates Britain's oldest and most senior order of chivalry. Kate, dressed in a white Self-Portrait ensemble and a Sean Barrett hat, watched as Prince William, 42, processed in full Garter regalia alongside King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The return to royal engagements comes after a year-long absence. Kate, who revealed in January she was in remission following a cancer diagnosis, had largely remained out of the public eye. Monday's event also marked a personal milestone-Kate first attended the Garter ceremony in 2008, before her marriage to Prince William, signaling her early acceptance into the royal fold.
The Order of the Garter, founded around 1348 by King Edward III, is limited to 24 Companions and includes the sovereign and members of the royal family. The royals exited the chapel following the service and returned by carriage to Windsor Castle's state apartments.
Kate's appearance came just two days after her family took part in Trooping the Colour, the annual celebration of the monarch's official birthday. Held in London on Saturday, the parade featured King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the entire Wales family: Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.
Wearing a custom Catherine Walker coat dress in aqua blue and a Juliette Botterill hat, Kate matched daughter Charlotte, who wore a lighter aqua dress with a brooch once owned by Queen Elizabeth II. Charlotte previously wore the piece at the late queen's funeral.
As Colonel of the Welsh Guards, Prince William rode on horseback in full regimental uniform, including a black armband in tribute to victims of the recent Air India air crash. Over 1,300 soldiers and 300 musicians participated in the procession, which concluded with a military flypast viewed by the royal family from the Buckingham Palace balcony.
Kate's return follows her public confirmation of cancer treatment earlier this year. "It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focused on recovery," she posted on social media in January.
The Wales family also marked Father's Day on Sunday with two new photos of William with George, Charlotte, and Louis. A message accompanying the post read: "Happy Father's Day, Papa (before and after!) We love you! G, C & L ."
