The Princess of Wales as she broke new ground with her Early Years Foundation, passionately addressed mental health, and represented the Crown with Prince William on a major royal tour. This year, her style, grace, and dedication shone through, and she delighted fans with dazzling fashion moments and even some rare tiara appearances.
On a recent state visit from South Korea, Catherine wore a seldom-seen tiara from the royal vault, which sparked admiration and drew headlines, especially as she supported the monarchy following King Charles's health scare. Typically, there are two significant annual occasions where tiaras are expected: the state banquet at Buckingham Palace for visiting dignitaries and the diplomatic corps reception attended by ambassadors and high commissioners in Britain. This year, anticipation is high to see her at Buckingham Palace’s Diplomatic Reception, where she is expected to captivate attendees with a radiant presence, exquisite gowns, and jewels that make for an iconic and unforgettable look.
Throughout her twelve years as a royal, Princess Catherine has been loaned some of the Crown’s most spectacular tiaras, initially by Queen Elizabeth II and now by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. She has often been seen in three specific pieces: the Cartier Halo Tiara, Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, and the Lotus Flower Tiara.
Last year, after an official event with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Catherine unveiled the Strathmore Rose Tiara. No monarch had worn this piece since the 1930s when it was presented to Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. By choosing this tiara, Catherine honored the Queen Mother and symbolized her close relationship with King Charles. Experts praised this thoughtful nod to royal heritage as a modern take on a classic heirloom, bridging past and present in a way that resonates deeply with the public.
Catherine’s style has evolved to include heartfelt gestures and visible vulnerability, often sharing videos and statements on deeply personal experiences. Her openness has brought her closer to the public, a quality reminiscent of Princess Diana’s compassionate legacy.
One of the most iconic pieces associated with Catherine is Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, commissioned in 1913 by Queen Mary. Adorned with diamonds and swinging pearls, it was famously worn by Queen Elizabeth II early in her reign and later by Princess Diana at her 1981 wedding. Catherine first wore this tiara at Buckingham Palace’s diplomatic reception in 2015, and it has since become her go-to piece for formal events.
Another stunning piece in her collection is the Lotus Flower Tiara, originally crafted from a necklace given to the Queen Mother as a wedding gift in 1923. The tiara can be worn traditionally or as a bandeau in a 1920s style. Catherine first wore this piece at her inaugural state banquet in 2015, welcoming Chinese President Xi Jinping, and has donned it at other events, including King Charles III’s first diplomatic reception in 2022 and again in 2024, when it was lent to Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.
Finally, the Cartier Halo Tiara holds sentimental value as it was the tiara she wore on her wedding day in April 2011 at Westminster Abbey. Originally purchased in 1936 by King George VI for his wife, Elizabeth, this piece was passed to Queen Elizabeth II for her 18th birthday and has been worn by other royal family members over the years. Although Catherine has not worn it since her wedding, it remains a cherished piece in her collection.
This year has truly highlighted Princess Catherine’s blend of tradition and modernity, creating unforgettable royal moments. Her choices continue to inspire and captivate, cementing her status as a style icon and a compassionate representative of the royal family.
