Kate Middleton revives a symbolic look rich in subtle messages and royal references.

Kate Middleton reappears in look honoring the Queen Elizabeth II with a subtle nod to Meghan Markle

The Princess of Wales brings back an outfit full of meaning.

MAY 20, 2025 7:06 PM EDTMAY 20, 2025, 7:06 PM EDT

Kate Middleton may not seek the spotlight with her outfits, but she remains one of the most elegant royals in Europe. Her wardrobe and jewelry collection are rich with historical references, making her appearances a point of interest in fashion circles—especially when she wears something as notable as her latest look at the traditional King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

Joined by her husband, Prince William, the Princess of Wales hosted one of the traditional garden parties held each spring and summer at Buckingham Palace. For the occasion, she chose a coordinated look in one of this season’s standout shades: butter yellow. But rather than simply following a trend, Kate Middleton was ahead of it—she first wore this very dress at the Platinum Jubilee Thanksgiving service for Queen Elizabeth II at St. Paul’s Cathedral in June 2022.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 20: Prince William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales stand at the top of the Garden steps before the start of a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on May 20, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Aaron Chown - WPA Pool / Getty Images)

Kate Middleton’s Tributes to Queen Elizabeth II

By rewearing this butter-yellow Emilia Wickstead dress—with its high neckline, long sleeves, midi skirt, and signature crossover waist—the Princess of Wales evokes a key moment in Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. She first wore the look at the Platinum Jubilee service in 2022, just three months before the Queen’s passing. Then, as now, she paired it with a raffia disc fascinator adorned with flowers by Philip Treacy, taupe suede pumps, and a yellow clutch.

What has changed since that 2022 appearance are the earrings. This time, Kate chose the earrings she debuted at her 2011 wedding instead of the diamond and pearl pair that once belonged to Queen Elizabeth II. The design, by British jeweler Robinson Pelham, was inspired by her family’s coat of arms.

A Subtle Nod to Meghan Markle

Middleton’s look carried more than just a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II—it also echoed a key royal moment involving Meghan Markle. The Platinum Jubilee celebration marked one of the last times Meghan and Prince Harry appeared at an official event alongside the royal family. Since then, their only joint appearance with the Prince and Princess of Wales was at Queen Elizabeth’s funeral.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 20: Catherine, Princess of Wales stands at the top of the Garden steps, as the National Anthem is played, before the start of a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on May 20, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Aaron Chown - WPA Pool / Getty Images)

Queen Elizabeth II’s Funeral, September 2022