royal fashion

Kate Middleton's stunning Royal Ascot look featured a hidden tribute to Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana


She completed the look with her trusted beige suede pumps and carried an ivory clutch with a pearl clasp.


Kate Middleton's stunning Royal Ascot look featured a hidden tribute to Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana© Samir Hussein
Daniel NeiraSenior Writer
JUNE 17, 2026 12:11 PM EDT

The Princess of Wales made a dazzling return to Royal Ascot on Wednesday, stepping out in a radiant monochromatic ensemble that paid tribute to two of the most influential women in royal history.

For her first appearance at the prestigious racing event in two years, Princess Kate embraced a vibrant marigold-yellow palette, pairing a striking Roksanda dress with treasured pieces from the royal jewelry collection.

Kate's appearance marked her first Royal Ascot outing in two years and quickly became one of the event's standout fashion moments.© JUSTIN TALLIS
Kate's appearance marked her first Royal Ascot outing in two years and quickly became one of the event's standout fashion moments.

Her accessories carried special meaning, as she honored both the late Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana through two beloved heirloom pieces.

Kate wore a pair of sparkling diamond drop earrings that once belonged to Queen Elizabeth II. The elegant statement earrings perfectly complemented her sleek hairstyle and added a touch of royal glamour to the bold look.

Kate's elegant beauty look featured a sleek low chignon, allowing her statement earrings to take center stage.© Mark Cuthbert
The Princess of Wales embraced royal rewear fashion, bringing back her beloved Roksanda 'Brigitte' dress for the occasion.

She also accessorized with Princess Diana's iconic three-strand pearl and diamond bracelet, a sentimental piece designed by jeweler Nigel Milne in 1988.

The bracelet was famously worn by Diana alongside her celebrated "Elvis" gown in the late 1980s and was later gifted to Kate by Prince William following his mother's passing.

The Princess of Wales paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana through two sentimental pieces from the royal jewelry collection.© Samir Hussein
The Princess of Wales paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana through two sentimental pieces from the royal jewelry collection.

The Princess's fashion choice was equally memorable. She re-wore a custom version of Roksanda's "Brigitte" dress in an eye-catching canary-yellow hue.

The sophisticated silhouette featured a rounded neckline, structured short sleeves, and a fitted waist that highlighted her elegant frame.

A bespoke Jane Taylor hat completed the Princess's striking marigold-yellow look for the prestigious racing event.© Chris Jackson
A bespoke Jane Taylor hat completed the Princess's striking marigold-yellow look for the prestigious racing event.

A dramatic panel of fabric swept across the bodice and culminated in an oversized bow at the shoulder, while the flowing A-line skirt moved beautifully as she walked through the racecourse grounds.

Adding another layer of coordination to the look, Kate topped off the ensemble with a bespoke Jane Taylor straw hat in the same vibrant shade.

Princess Diana famously wore the three-strand pearl and diamond bracelet in the late 1980s before it was later gifted to Kate by Prince William.© JUSTIN TALLIS
Princess Diana famously wore the three-strand pearl and diamond bracelet in the late 1980s before it was later gifted to Kate by Prince William.

The architectural design featured a sweeping brim and delicate matching netting that floated across the crown, creating a modern take on traditional Royal Ascot millinery.

The Princess allowed the vivid dress to remain the focal point by choosing understated neutral accessories. She completed the look with her trusted beige suede pumps and carried an ivory clutch with a pearl clasp.

Kate Middleton made a radiant return to Royal Ascot, wearing a vibrant yellow Roksanda dress and meaningful royal heirloom jewelry.© Chris Jackson
Kate Middleton made a radiant return to Royal Ascot, wearing a vibrant yellow Roksanda dress and meaningful royal heirloom jewelry.

Her beauty look was equally refined. Kate wore her brunette hair in a sleek low chignon with softly swept-back sections, allowing her statement earrings to take center stage.

A natural, glowing complexion, softly defined eyes, and a rosy pink lip completed the polished appearance.

Kate accessorized her monochromatic ensemble with Queen Elizabeth's diamond drop earrings and Princess Diana's iconic pearl bracelet.© Chris Jackson
Kate accessorized her monochromatic ensemble with Queen Elizabeth's diamond drop earrings and Princess Diana's iconic pearl bracelet.

The appearance marked a triumphant return to Royal Ascot for the Princess of Wales and served as a touching reminder of the enduring influence of both Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana on today's royal family.