Why does Kate Middleton Wear Three Poppies?

Often, during the annual Remembrance events—the Festival of Remembrance and the National Service of Remembrance—Kate Middleton will wear three distinctive poppies on her coat. Ever wondered why?

You’re not alone. This thoughtful accessory has become a hallmark of the Princess’s Remembrance attire, sparking curiosity among royal watchers, Kate fans and the wider public. It’s led to a lot of speculation.

Although Kate has never explained her choice, we’re all curious to know why. So, let’s take a look at the main theories:

1) Does Kate Wear Three Poppies As A Tribute to Her Great-Grandmother’s Brothers?

One of the most heartfelt theories surrounding Kate’s three poppies is that they honour her family’s own connection to World War I. During a visit to the Imperial War Museum in 2018, Kate viewed letters written by her great-grandmother’s three brothers, all of whom served in the First World War and tragically lost their lives in the conflict (pictured below).

It’s possible that the Princess wears one poppy for each of her great-grandmother’s brothers who never returned. It’s a solid theory.

2) Do The Three Poppies Represent the Three Branches of the UK Armed Forces?

Another widely accepted theory is that Kate’s three poppies represent the three branches of the United Kingdom’s military: the Army, the Royal Navy, and the Royal Air Force.

The Royal Family has long-standing, deep connections to each branch, and Kate’s role often involves honouring those who serve in the Armed Forces. Her husband, Prince William, served as a search-and-rescue helicopter pilot, and her father-in-law, King Charles, served in both the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy.

This theory seems particularly fitting given her prominent position and her dedication to honouring military personnel at events throughout the year, plus her own ties with each branch.  The Princess holds many honorary military appointments, including Colonel-in-Chief of the 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards, Colonel of the Irish Guards, Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, Royal Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Coningsby and Honorary Air Commandant of the RAF Air Cadets. 

It’s also said Queen Camilla wears three poppies at Remembrance events for the same reasons, to represent the three branches of the United Kingdom’s military.

Plus, this theory ties in with the speculation behind Queen Elizabeth II’s preference for wearing multiple poppies.  Dig through the archives and you’ll find the late Queen often wore several poppies pinned to her coat with a brooch—just like Kate.  She wore as many as five poppies at a time.  It’s thought the five poppies also represented the three branches of Armed Forces, and honoured the efforts of the Civil Defence and the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in both World Wars.

Another solid theory.

3) Perhaps It’s Just An Aesthetic Choice?

While the theories of familial and military symbolism are most widely discussed, there’s also a more practical reason that might explain Kate’s three-poppy arrangement. Visually, a single poppy could look understated against the backdrop of her often dark, formal coat.

Three poppies form a balanced, eye-catching arrangement that’s instantly recognisable in photos and on television. This visual impact allows the poppy tribute to stand out, inviting people to reflect on the significance of Remembrance Day.

I like this theory and actually, it’s the one I subscribe to.

Which theory do you believe? Which is correct?

We may never know the exact reason why Kate wears three poppies, whether she wears three poppies for personal, symbolic, or aesthetic reasons. I guess it’s open for interpretation. What’s yours? Let me know in the comment section below.

I’ll end the post by saying that some people also believe the Royal ladies wear poppies on the left side, which is closest to the heart. But The British Legion do say there’s “no ‘correct’ way to wear a poppy” and it all boils down to personal preference.