For over a decade, the Princess of Wales has attended official events showcasing a diverse collection of Royal Jewels. While she is often recognized for her extensive array of earrings and the two stunning tiaras she dons for state occasions, a lesser-known aspect of her jewelry collection is her assortment of brooches. Although these exquisite pieces are worn sparingly, the princess possesses several significant brooches, many of which have been loaned to her by her mother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth II, and by the late Princess Diana. At least one brooch is a new acquisition.
Known for her impeccable style, Katherine elevated her ensemble for St. David's Day on Wednesday by incorporating a unique accessory. The princess consistently impresses with her fashion choices, and her outfit—featuring a red coat, black pants, and a black fascinator—did not disappoint. The mother of three was spotted wearing a leek pin on her blazer, which is a notable tribute as soldiers wear the leek in memory of St. David's leadership during the Welsh battles against the Saxons. Although she made the unusual choice to use her double-breasted crimson jacket to showcase multiple leeks, we still rate the look a solid 10 out of 10. This particular piece was designed for the late Queen by jewelers commissioned by the regimental guardsmen in 1960 and was clearly a cherished gift, as the Queen wore it repeatedly over the decades.
One of the most historic pieces in Catherine's collection is a stunning pearl and diamond brooch dating back to the early 19th century, known as the Duchess of Cambridge brooch. This jewel was first introduced by Princess Augusta, Duchess of Cambridge, who married a younger son of King George III in 1818. She is also the aunt by marriage of Queen Victoria and the great-great-great-grandmother of Queen Elizabeth II. The Princess debuted this heirloom brooch, which has connections to both Princess Diana and Queen Camilla, during the state visit of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to London. Originating in 1863, the brooch was initially a gift to Princess Alexandra of Denmark from a group of ladies from Wales upon her marriage to Prince Albert Edward, the eldest son of Queen Victoria. This exquisite piece, adorned with diamonds and an emerald drop, was pinned to Kate's custom plum-colored Amelia Wickstead coat dress as she welcomed the president at his hotel on Tuesday morning.
During the Commonwealth Day service, Catherine showcased her elegant style, but it was her choice of jewelry that captured attention. She wore another striking piece, a brooch featuring the Prince of Wales feathers, which symbolizes her new title and position within the royal family. A version of this brooch has been worn multiple times by Queen Consort Camilla, although she has never officially used the title "Princess of Wales." The late Princess Diana also sported it, often wearing it as a pendant on a necklace. Riding in the glass coach alongside Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, the Princess of Wales donned a Jenny Packham dress complemented by a Philip Treacy hat. The highlight of her ensemble was the Irish Guards regimental brooch, signifying her role as Colonel of the Irish Guards, which adds a meaningful touch to her appearance. Additionally, she holds the title of honorary Canadian Ranger and colonel-in-chief of the First Queen's Dragoon Guards.
The hallowed grounds of Centre Court erupted in thunderous applause as Catherine, Princess of Wales, took her seat for the Wimbledon Gentlemen's Final on Sunday. Pinning a prestigious brooch to her stunning Sofia Garb, she showcased an honor reserved for a select few. This committee bow is awarded to the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, a role that the Princess of Wales has fulfilled since 2016, taking over from the late Queen Elizabeth II. In the years since, she has worn this piece at every Wimbledon appearance. With its purple and green hues, the ribbon embodies the best of British style at London’s Grand Slam tournament, signifying Middleton's esteemed position in the elite world of tennis.
