While Prince William focused on his official duties in Cape Town, one charming detail stole the spotlight: a delicate friendship bracelet on his wrist, beaded with the word *Papa.*
These bracelets, reminiscent of the Taylor Swift-inspired friendship accessories popularized during her *Eras Tour,* have found their way into the Royal Family’s hearts. Prince William, who attended the London leg of Swift’s tour with Prince George and Princess Charlotte in June, has been spotted wearing his bracelet throughout the summer.
Though simple, the bracelet carries a powerful message about William’s close bond with his children. It is believed to be a thoughtful gift from Princess Charlotte, serving as a heartwarming reminder of his family while he’s away on royal engagements.
It seems the trend is catching on in the royal household. Princess Charlotte, known for her playful spirit, has also been seen wearing friendship bracelets, including a Taylor Swift-inspired piece during her recent Wimbledon outing with her mother, Princess Catherine.
On the same day, Prince George attended the UEFA Euro 2024 England vs. Spain match with Prince William, sporting a discreet blue friendship bracelet on his left wrist. This accessory also made an appearance in the family’s Instagram story celebrating George’s 11th birthday, where fans caught another glimpse of the bracelet.
Royal fans couldn’t contain their excitement over William’s heartfelt accessory. Social media was abuzz with comments, with one fan noting:
> *“I haven’t read that anyone gave it to him in South Africa, so we know it’s his children that call him that. It’s likely one of them—or all of them—gifted it to him.”*
In Cape Town, the bracelet served as a tender reminder of William’s three children, each of whom holds a unique place in his life.
During a visit to a school in Wales earlier this year, Prince William shared a funny anecdote about his youngest, Prince Louis, often trying to "steal his sister’s jewelry," adding a touch of sibling rivalry to the mix.
Even King Charles has embraced the trend. During a recent visit to Gwynedd, the King was spotted wearing a neon friendship bracelet peeking out from the cuff of his suit, coinciding with Queen Camilla’s 77th birthday. The bracelet was a colorful and sweet nod to his family’s affectionate bonds.
Later that day in Cape Town, William played rugby with young South Africans from three townships at Ocean View Secondary School. His bracelet made yet another appearance as he took part in a rugby coaching session and a walk beneath Table Mountain with Robert Irwin, a global ambassador for the Earthshot Prize.
Ahead of the Earthshot Prize ceremony on November 6, William shared a candid moment during an interview with Australian television. He revealed that his children—George, Charlotte, and Louis—often ask him, *“Do you have a favorite African animal?”* His reply? *“I think I’m going to have to say the cheetah.”*
Africa holds a deep significance for the Wales family. It was a favorite destination of Princess Diana, and William chose to propose to Catherine there in 2010. The Prince has supported conservation efforts on the continent for years and may soon wish to introduce George, Charlotte, and Louis to Africa’s wonders.
This small but meaningful token, the *Papa* bracelet, perfectly captures the royal family’s tender connections, blending tradition with a modern, personal touch.
