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 Her wardrobe and jewelry collection are rich with historical references, making her appearances a point of interest in fashion circles—especially when she wears something as notable as her latest look at the traditional King’s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.
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.