Sad news, folks. There’ll be no ‘tiara moment’ for Kate during the Qatari state visit next week.
Fans (myself included) had high hopes that the Princess of Wales would attend the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday evening. It felt like our only real chance to see her in a ballgown and tiara this year (especially as she didn’t attend the diplomatic reception earlier this month, either). However, her decision is understandable given her health. She’s wisely keeping her schedule light following treatment and plans to slowly ease back into royal duties next year.
But there is some good news! We will still see Kate next week. And not once, but TWICE!!
The Princess will play a significant role in welcoming the Emir of Qatar to the UK on Tuesday. While she isn’t attending the evening banquet, she’ll still joined Prince William at Horse Guards Parade for the ceremonial welcome in the morning. Together, the royal couple will greet the Emir and Sheikha Jawaher before accompanying them to and from the parade grounds.
Later in the week, Kate will take centre stage at Westminster Abbey for her fourth annual “Together at Christmas” carol service on Friday night. This festive tradition, spearheaded by the Princess, celebrates the power of community and brings people together during the holiday season. As in previous years, the event will be televised on ITV1 and streamed on ITVX on Christmas Eve.
While we may miss out on glittering tiaras and grand ballgowns next week, the two engagements still promise excitement for royal style watchers and Kate fans alike. State Visits often call for sophisticated daytime ensembles, and Kate never disappoints. Remember this stunning look from last year’s Korean State Visit? Bold.
And Kate’s carol service outfits are always a treat too. Both during the evening event and in the televised broadcast. How will she top last year’s chic ‘winter whites’ look?
Kate’s upcoming appearances follow two high-profile engagements earlier this month. Over the Remembrance weekend, she took part in the Festival of Remembrance and the National Service of Remembrance, honouring the nation’s fallen heroes with her signature grace and composure.
Looking ahead, I’m crossing my fingers for tiaras and gowns in 2025. It’s rumoured that William and Kate will go overseas more than once next year, which would provide the right opportunity for some bling. Until then, Kate’s well-being remains the top priority—and when she’s ready to return to full regalia, it will undoubtedly be worth the wait!
I’m glad Catherine is not attending the evening event. After reading the daytime schedule it sounds like a long morning and afternoon.
Silly question from me (American here and don’t understand), but I read Buckingham Palace is under renovation and there will not be State Banquets for a few years. Is this true? I think Windsor is privately owned. Can’t State Banquets be held at another location?