The Princess of Wales took part in the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, marking the occasion as the Colonel of the Irish Guards. The event was rich in tradition and symbolism, with Kate embracing Irish heritage through her carefully chosen outfit.
Dressed in a striking green ensemble—a color deeply associated with Ireland—the princess embodied the spirit of the celebration. As she gradually returns to public duties following her treatment, Kate upheld the annual tradition by presenting sprigs of shamrock to officers and guardsmen at the Wellington Barracks in London. Among the recipients was a very special member of the regiment—Sheamus, the Irish wolfhound who serves as the regimental mascot.
The shamrock has been regarded as Ireland’s unofficial national flower for centuries. According to legend, St. Patrick used the three-leaf clover as a teaching tool to explain the Holy Trinity to non-believers. To honor this cherished symbol, Kate adorned her elegant bottle-green Alexander McQueen coat with a significant brooch.
This particular brooch has a fascinating history. Unlike many royal jewelry pieces, it does not belong to the royal family. Instead, it is a treasured item loaned to the princess by the regiment. Crafted by Cartier, the delicate gold pin—shaped like a shamrock with a central emerald—was first presented by the Irish Guards to Princess Mary, the Princess Royal and King Charles’s great-aunt, in 1961. Following her passing in 1965, much of her jewelry was sold at auction, but this brooch was purchased by the regiment and has since been worn by royal women associated with the unit. In the past, both the Queen Mother and Princess Anne have donned this symbolic piece. Kate first wore the brooch in 2011 and has since continued the tradition at every St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Royal fans also noticed another subtle yet meaningful detail in Kate’s ensemble—her elegantly styled chestnut locks. This year, she opted for a sophisticated updo reminiscent of the Irish trinity knot, also known as the triquetra. This ancient Celtic symbol consists of three interlaced arcs, often representing the unity of three elements or the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.
The Princess of Wales has always showcased stunning hairstyles during St. Patrick’s Day events, but this year’s look stood out not only for its elegance but also for its deeper cultural significance. Through her thoughtful styling and symbolic choices, Kate paid a heartfelt tribute to Irish history and heritage, making this celebration even more special.
