What Did Kate Middleton Wear to the Royal Reunion? A Closer Look at the Princess’s Iconic Purple Outfit
A Royal Return in Regal Purple
What makes Kate Middleton’s royal reunion outfit so memorable? As the Princess of Wales returned to the spotlight for the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, her choice of attire spoke volumes, blending regal tradition with her signature modern elegance. The event marked a significant moment, not just for the nation’s history, but as a joyful return for Kate to major royal engagements.
Her outfit was more than just a fashion statement; it was a masterclass in thoughtful, symbolic dressing. Every element, from the deep purple hue to the carefully selected accessories, conveyed respect, strength, and a commitment to sustainable fashion principles that have become hallmarks of her personal style.
The Purple Emilia Wickstead Coat Dress
Designer and Design Details
For this important occasion, the Princess of Wales chose a striking deep purple coat dress by British designer Emilia Wickstead. The piece featured a neatly belted waist that defined her silhouette and a gracefully pleated skirt that added a touch of softness and movement to the structured silhouette.
The design is a classic example of Wickstead’s work, known for its clean lines, feminine tailoring, and sophisticated aesthetic. It perfectly encapsulates the blend of formal duty and personal style that Kate embodies in her public appearances.
Color Significance and Styling
Purple has long been associated with royalty, dignity, and nobility throughout history. By selecting this regal hue, Kate paid homage to the gravity of the VE Day commemoration while projecting an image of quiet strength and confidence befitting the occasion.
The monochrome styling, with the dress and hat in the same deep shade, created a powerful and cohesive look. It was a choice that felt both respectful for the solemn national occasion and visually impactful, drawing admiration from fashion critics and royal watchers alike.
Previous Occasions Worn
Demonstrating her commitment to sustainable fashion, this was not the first time the public had seen this elegant coat dress. Kate previously wore the Emilia Wickstead design in 2022 during a meeting with the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa.
By recycling the outfit for this significant national event, she sent a clear message about conscious consumption and environmental responsibility, proving that a timeless piece can be just as powerful and relevant the second time around.
Accessories That Complete the Look
The Sean Barrett Hat with Bow
Topping off her ensemble was a matching purple hat by Sean Barrett, a milliner favored by the royal family for formal occasions. The hat was adorned with a delicate bow, adding a feminine touch that balanced the structured silhouette of the coat dress.
The coordination between the hat and dress was flawless, creating a seamless and polished appearance from head to toe. The tan Ralph Lauren heels completed the look with understated elegance.
Ruby Earrings and Their Symbolic Meaning
Perhaps the most talked-about element of her look was the exquisite ruby drop earrings. Rubies are traditionally associated with love, strength, and protection, making them a poignant choice for a day of national remembrance and tribute to those who served.
Jewelry experts noted that the earrings appeared to be a new or adapted design, featuring a refined halo of diamonds above the ruby stone. This choice felt both intentional and sentimental, a respectful tribute to those who made sacrifices during the war.
The Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Brooch
Pinned to her lapel was a gold brooch representing the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm, complete with Air Force wings. This military insignia was a direct nod to the armed forces and the sacrifices made during the Second World War.
It was a subtle yet powerful way to honor the armed forces, using fashion as a tool for communication and respect. The brooch demonstrated how Kate uses every element of her outfit to convey deeper meaning and emotional resonance.
The Sustainable Fashion Philosophy
Why Kate Chooses to Rewear Outfits
The Princess of Wales has become a champion of sustainable fashion, frequently rewearing and repurposing items from her wardrobe rather than constantly acquiring new pieces. This approach challenges the fast-fashion cycle and promotes a more mindful way of dressing that resonates with modern values.
Her choices reflect a contemporary set of values, where elegance and sustainability go hand in hand. She proves that style is not about constantly wearing something new, but about investing in quality pieces that stand the test of time.
Transforming Pieces Through Accessories
Kate is a master at giving old favorites a new life through creative styling. By swapping accessories, changing her hairstyle, or making minor tailoring tweaks, she can completely transform an outfit and make it feel entirely fresh and appropriate for new occasions.
This strategic approach allows her to maintain a fresh and exciting public image while staying true to her principles of conscious dressing. It has inspired fashion enthusiasts worldwide to adopt similar sustainable practices in their own wardrobes.
Royal Fashion Excellence and Future Appearances
Kate’s commitment to thoughtful dressing extends beyond the royal reunion. Recent appearances, including her stunning emerald velvet gown at the Royal Variety Performance, showcase her continued evolution as a style icon who balances tradition with contemporary fashion sensibilities.
Her approach to fashion demonstrates that being a style leader is not about having the largest wardrobe, but about making intentional choices that reflect personal values, respect for occasions, and a commitment to sustainable practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why did Kate Middleton choose a purple dress for the VE Day reunion?
A: Purple is a regal and sophisticated color that conveys dignity and respect. For the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, a solemn national occasion, the color choice reflected the importance of the event while maintaining Kate’s signature elegant aesthetic and demonstrating her understanding of diplomatic dressing.
Q2: How much did Kate’s ruby earrings cost?
A: According to jewelry experts, the ruby drop earrings are estimated to be worth £25,000 to £30,000. They appear to be either newly created or adapted from an existing design, featuring a more refined single halo design compared to her previous ruby jewelry pieces.
Q3: Is the Emilia Wickstead dress brand new or recycled?
A: Kate recycled this purple Emilia Wickstead coat dress from 2022, when she wore it to meet South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This demonstrates her commitment to sustainable fashion and conscious dressing practices that have become central to her public image.
Q4: What is the significance of the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm brooch?
A: The brooch features Air Force wings and represents military service and national pride. Wearing it on VE Day, a day of remembrance for those who served, adds emotional depth and respect to the outfit, honoring the sacrifices made during the war.
Q5: How does Kate Middleton maintain her signature hair style?
A: Kate’s bouncy waves are achieved using a large barrel wand on smooth, blow-dried hair. Her hair is parted at the back and pushed forward to create a deep wave effect, often called the “royal wave” by professional stylists who have studied her signature look.
Q6: Where can I buy similar pieces to Kate’s royal reunion outfit?
A: While Emilia Wickstead pieces are high-end designer wear available at luxury retailers, similar purple coat dresses can be found at department stores. For accessories, brands like Ralph Lauren offer comparable heels, and similar hat styles are available at millinery shops and online retailers.
Q7: What other designers does Kate Middleton frequently wear?
A: Kate regularly wears Catherine Walker, Alexander McQueen, Talbot Runhof, and Jenny Packham. She also favors British designers and often chooses pieces that align with her sustainable fashion philosophy and commitment to supporting local talent.
Q8: How often does Kate Middleton rewear outfits?
A: Kate has reworn outfits at least 98 documented times throughout her public life. She strategically transforms pieces through different accessories, styling, and tailoring modifications to create entirely new looks from existing wardrobe pieces, maximizing the value of each item.
