Fresh off a prominent appearance at Trooping the Colour, where she took on a significant role and paid sartorial homage to Princess Diana, Princess Catherine once again turned heads—this time at the Order of the Garter service held at Windsor Castle on June 16. But beyond her elegant look, royal watchers believe her outfit carried a deeper message—one of subtle strength, loyalty, and legacy.
A Look Fit for Royal Tradition — With a Modern Twist
For the solemn ceremony, which honors outstanding service to the monarchy and the country, Princess Kate selected a familiar favorite from her wardrobe: a cream Self-Portrait midi dress. Known as the Tailored Bouclé and Chiffon Midi Dress, the ensemble features a sharply structured blazer-style top paired with a soft, flowing lace skirt—offering a balance of regal polish and contemporary grace. Retailing at around $570, it’s a refined piece she’s worn on several meaningful occasions.
A Masterclass in Meaningful Style
Kate accessorized the dress with pieces that added both vintage glamour and symbolic weight. Around her neck, she wore a 1980s vintage five-strand faux pearl necklace by Susan Caplan, along with matching pearl cluster earrings. Caplan, a Jewish designer, is known for pieces with historical resonance—making Kate’s choice particularly poignant, especially as she has previously worn the same jewels at the VE Day concert in May 2025, subtly honoring the memory of Holocaust victims.
Her ensemble also included a bespoke bow hat by Sean Barrett Millinery, a black velvet bow hair clip from Jigsaw, and a chic Strathberry Multrees Chain Wallet, a favorite among royals and celebrities alike. She completed the look with her signature Gianvito Rossi “Gianvito 105” pumps in “bisque”—timeless and elegant.
Rewearing With Purpose
The Princess of Wales is well-known for her thoughtful outfit repeats, and this Self-Portrait dress is no exception. She first wore it in September 2021 during a reception for her Hold Still photography project, celebrating community resilience during the pandemic. She brought it back in June 2022 for Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Party at the Palace, and again earlier this year for the VE Day celebration.
Each time, the dress has been styled with subtle variations—but always with a sense of grace, purpose, and quiet symbolism.
A Message Woven in Elegance
While the world admires her for style, Princess Catherine’s fashion choices often speak louder than words. Whether honoring past generations, reinforcing her place in the royal firmament, or supporting her husband, Prince William, her presence at the Order of the Garter was more than just ceremonial.
It was a statement. One of continuity, strength, and a quiet but unmistakable power.
And as the monarchy navigates a time of transition, Catherine remains a figure of steady grace—her wardrobe, as always, telling the story without saying a word.
