A Royal Return: The Princess of Wales Shines at Windsor Castle
The Princess of Wales made a stunning return to the royal spotlight, dazzling in a dark red silk creponne Givenchy evening gown as she attended her first state banquet in nearly two years. Her choice of attire was a thoughtful nod to the French guests, including President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron, with the floor-length dress designed by Sarah Burton, the same designer who created her wedding dress.
Kate joined King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and the Prince of Wales, along with approximately 160 other guests, including icons like Sir Mick Jagger and Sir Elton John, at the impressive St George’s Hall within Windsor Castle. This event marked a significant moment for Kate, who had been diagnosed with cancer in 2024 but confirmed she was free from the disease at the start of this year. Her last appearance at a grand royal dinner was 20 months ago in November 2023, during an event honoring the South Korean president.
Her gown featured a caped back detailing, adding a touch of elegance to her overall look. With her hair cascading down, she wore her beloved Lover’s Knot tiara, a piece cherished by her mother-in-law, Diana, Princess of Wales. Kate and her husband, William, were seen smiling and exchanging loving glances as they arrived together, walking side by side before the banquet.
In addition to her tiara, Kate carried a lily of the valley embroidered evening clutch and wore several prestigious awards, including the Rosette of Grand Officier de l’ordre national du mérite, the Royal Family Orders of Charles III and Elizabeth II, the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, and the GCVO sash and star.
Earlier in the day, Kate was photographed smiling in the gardens of Windsor Castle alongside William, with Kensington Palace sharing on social media: “Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor.” The Prince was dressed in white tie, adorned with the Most Noble Order of the Garter Sash, the Lesser George, miniature medals, and a series of chest orders.
Last week, the princess opened up about her “rollercoaster” cancer recovery, its life-changing impact, and the importance of maintaining a “brave face” during a visit to Colchester Hospital. During the banquet, she was seated next to President Macron, engaging in conversation ahead of the King’s toast. On her other side was art historian Christophe Leribault, chairman of the Musee D’Orsay. Kate, who studied the history of art at university, clearly felt at ease among her fellow guests.
Queen Camilla was elegantly dressed in an ivory silk and crepe embroidered evening gown by Fiona Clare, complemented by a sapphire and diamond tiara, necklace, earrings, and bracelet from Queen Elizabeth II’s sapphire suite. She also wore the Legion d’Honneur French sash, Garter Star, and the King’s family order. Mrs. Macron, meanwhile, opted for a vivid blue caped evening gown with gold epaulettes-style detail on the shoulder, making a striking impression.
For William and Kate, this was their first time attending a Windsor Castle banquet, with the last one held there 11 years ago for the Irish President Michael D Higgins in 2014. Prior to the event, Kate fulfilled her royal duties as the first French state visit to the UK in 17 years began. She accompanied the Macrons to Windsor with William, participating in the carriage ride, ceremonial welcome, royal luncheon, and Royal Collection exhibition.
Kate had already embraced French fashion during her daytime engagements, choosing Christian Dior for her appearances. Her blush pink Dior jacket, the 30 Montaigne Rose Des Vents Bar Jacket from the 2024 collection, was reimagined by Maria Grazia Chiuri, inspired by the original design created by Dior himself in 1947. She paired the jacket with a tulle skirt and wore a sleek hat by Jess Collett.
As she and William met the French leader upon his arrival at RAF Northolt, Kate was charmed by a kiss to the hand from Mr. Macron, who leaned forward to deliver an air kiss towards it. This gesture highlighted the warm and cordial relationship between the royal couple and the French leadership.
