Princess Kate Middleton made a stunning return to royal duties on 8 July, attending the state banquet at Windsor Castle in honour of the French state visit.
This marked her first public appearance wearing a tiara since December 2023. This is a significant milestone following her cancer treatment and ongoing recovery.
HISTORY OF PRINCESS KATE’S TIARA
The Princess of Wales chose the iconic Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara. This is a piece steeped in royal history and famously worn by Princess Diana, according to People.
Kate has made this tiara her signature, having worn it on numerous occasions since 2015, including previous state banquets and royal weddings.
The tiara showcases elegant drop-shaped pearls and holds value not only for its beauty but also for its sentimental connection to the royal family.
PRINCESS KATE’S STYLE DETAILS
For the banquet, Kate paired the tiara with a striking red silk chiffon gown designed by Sarah Burton for Givenchy. This is the same designer behind her wedding dress.
The gown featured a ruched midsection, long, cape-like sleeves, and a flowing, pleated skirt.
She accessorised with chandelier earrings from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s collection and a pearl bangle. This completed a look rich in royal symbolism and elegance.
THE STATE BANQUET
The event was hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla and marked the first state banquet at Windsor Castle in over a decade.
It honoured French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron during their three-day visit to the UK. This is the first French state visit since Brexit.
The Macrons were welcomed with a regal horse-drawn carriage procession, followed by a formal welcome from the King and Queen.
STATE BANQUET DETAILS
Kate and Prince William shared a radiant photo on social media, captioned: “Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet tonight in Windsor.”
Many warmly received their appearance and noted Kate’s graceful return to public life after months away due to her health.
The banquet featured thoughtful details reflecting both British and French heritage. Guests enjoyed Taylor’s 1977 Vintage Port and a 1948 Grande Champagne Cognac.
The bottles marked the birth years of President Macron and King Charles.
PRINCESS KATE ON RETURNING TO ROYAL DUTIES
A special cocktail named “L’entente” combined British gin with lemon curd and French pastis, garnished with dried French cornflowers and English roses.
Flowers from Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle gardens adorned the tables, and the organisers donated any unused blooms to charity.
Kate’s return to wearing a tiara symbolises her resilience and commitment to her royal duties despite her recent health challenges.
HER RADIANT RETURN
She spoke candidly about the difficulties of recovery after treatment during a hospital visit on 2 July. “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment.
Treatment’s done, then it’s like, ‘I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually, the phase afterwards is difficult.”
Her appearance at the banquet signals a hopeful new chapter for the Princess of Wales.
Princess Kate’s radiant return in red and tiara is a powerful symbol of hope and continuity, inspiring many as she balances her public role with personal recovery.
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR ROYALS TO BALANCE PUBLIC DUTIES WITH PERSONAL CHALLENGES?
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