“She returned in white—and stole the show.” After a year away, Princess Kate stepped back into the spotlight with grace, elegance, and a look that turned every head 👑🤍 See the stunning photos from the royal parade in the article 👇📸
The Princess of Wales made a much-anticipated return to royal duties, joining the royal family for one of its most colorful annual events, the Shrove Tuesday parade. After missing last year’s celebration due to medical treatment, Kate stepped back into the spotlight with grace and elegance.
Wearing a refreshed white dress by Self-Portrait and a custom hat by Shaun Barrett, Kate turned heads as she watched Prince William march alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla during the iconic event. The parade, held at Windsor Castle, is known for its pageantry and tradition.
The ceremony included royals and dignitaries dressed in rich velvet robes and feather-topped hats as they walked from the castle to St. George’s Chapel for a private religious service. Afterward, they returned in horse-drawn carriages, a nod to centuries-old tradition.
Kate was seen laughing and chatting with Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, as they stood under a shaded area near the chapel. Both appeared to enjoy the moment, smiling as the elderly knights of the Order of the Bath led the procession.
As Prince William approached from the castle grounds, he seemed to glance often at his wife, but she was absorbed in conversation with Sophie. Spectators lining the castle lawns braved the sun with hats and umbrellas, some even enjoying ice cream and picnic lunches as they watched the royal display unfold.
Following the private service, the royals returned to Windsor Castle in carriages, with the King and Queen leading the group, followed by Prince William and Princess Kate.
One royal was notably missing from the public procession — Prince Andrew. Although he remains a member of the royal order, he has not participated in such events for several years. However, he was spotted earlier in the day heading to the castle in more casual attire, reportedly to attend a private lunch and investiture ceremony held out of public view.
Prince Andrew stepped away from public life following controversy linked to his association with Jeffrey Epstein. His last formal appearance in a ceremonial robe was during the 2022 Garter Day celebration.
The parade is part of the traditions of the Order of the Garter, the oldest and most prestigious order of chivalry in Britain. Founded centuries ago, the order is made up of 24 members along with the monarch, the Prince of Wales, and a few foreign royals like the kings of Spain and the Netherlands.
Knighthood in this order is awarded at the monarch’s sole discretion, often given to individuals who have served the country or the royal family in notable ways. Last year, the Duchess of Gloucester was among those honored.
As the royal calendar picks up pace, more major appearances are expected. The King and Queen are scheduled to attend the Royal Ascot races, and early next month they will host a state visit from French President Emmanuel Macron.