Kate Middleton and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, showcased their enduring bond as they celebrated Garter Day at Windsor on Monday. It was a big day for the Princess of Wales, marking her first Garter Day since 2023 appearance after she stepped back from public duties last year in the wake of her cancer diagnosis.
Thankfully, Kate could rely on one of the royal family’s secret weapons to support her on the big day. By the Princess’s side as she watched the procession from Galilee Porch was the Duchess of Edinburgh, whose support during last year’s rocky period for The Firm has left many commentators referring to her as the House of Windsor’s rock. Kate and Sophie were also joined by Princess Alexandra, the Honourable Lady Ogilvy, and Princess Anne‘s husband, Sir Timothy Laurence. The Prince Edward, Duke of Kent joined later, in an automobile escort.
The pair seemed to be enjoying a warm conversation as they prepared to watch King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince William, Prince Edward, and the Gloucesters lead the Garter Day festivities. As if that wasn’t enough to remind royal watchers of their friendship, the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Edinburgh looked like they’d matched up their wardrobes, the picture of spring perfection in cream and baby pink ensembles.
Kate wore Self Portrait for the occasion. If the cream chiffon midi dress and blazer bodice looked familiar, it’s because the princess had previously donned the outfit for VE Day celebrations last month, though for Garter Day, she paired the look with a chic hat by Sean Barrett and a bag by Strathberry. From her jewelery box, Kate wore a vintage pair of pearl earrings (also part of her VE Day look). As for Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, she opted for a pale pinkwrap-style dress and matching hat.
