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On June 16, 2025, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, marked her return to the Order of the Garter ceremony, held at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. After a year away due to cancer treatment, Kate, 43, stood by her husband, Prince William, in one of the British monarchy’s most traditional events. The Order of the Garter, founded nearly 700 years ago by Edward III, is the oldest and most prestigious order of chivalry in the United Kingdom. Kate’s presence, smiling and elegant, underscored her recovery and commitment to royal duties. The event brought together other royals, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, in a celebration of pomp and history.
Kate’s participation was not only a personal milestone but also a highlight of the royal agenda. She arrived at the castle with the Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, showcasing their close bond. The ceremony, which honors public service and loyalty to the Crown, drew hundreds of spectators who filled the surroundings of Windsor. Kate’s outfit, a white Self Portrait dress previously worn, also drew attention for its elegance and sustainability.
The Order of the Garter is a symbol of continuity and tradition, and the 2025 edition reinforced its relevance. Alongside Kate and William, other royals, such as Princess Anne and the Duke of Edinburgh, joined the procession, dressed in iconic blue velvet capes and ostrich-plumed hats. The event, held annually in June, is a highlight of the royal calendar, especially in a month filled with celebrations like Trooping the Colour.
Key highlights of the ceremony:Kate Middleton returned after missing 2024 due to cancer treatment.The procession featured royals in traditional attire.The event took place at St. George’s Chapel, a historic venue for royal weddings. 
Kate Middleton e Charlotte – Foto: Instagram
History of the Order of the Garter
The Order of the Garter, established in 1348 by Edward III, draws inspiration from the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Limited to 24 members, plus the monarch and the Prince of Wales, the order recognizes individuals for exceptional service to the nation or the Crown. The selection of knights is the sovereign’s sole prerogative, making the appointment a singular honor.
Current members include figures like King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Anne, as well as foreign monarchs like King Felipe VI of Spain. The order’s exclusivity enhances its prestige, with only 24 knights or ladies companion at any time. The 2025 ceremony also featured names like former Prime Minister Tony Blair and composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, both honored in previous years.
The symbolism of the Order of the Garter extends beyond the ceremony. The insignia, featuring a blue ribbon and a diamond star, is worn with pride by members during the event. The procession, led by the King and accompanied by young pages of honor, is a visual spectacle that attracts tourists and monarchy enthusiasts.
Kate Middleton’s return
Kate’s presence at the 2025 Order of the Garter was particularly significant. After a challenging period marked by a cancer diagnosis in 2024, the princess announced her remission in January 2025. Her return to public events, including Trooping the Colour two days earlier, signaled a robust recovery. In Windsor, Kate displayed vitality, engaging with Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and sharing moments of ease while awaiting the procession.
Kate’s chosen dress, a white bouclé Self Portrait model, had been worn in May for Victory in Europe Day celebrations. The decision to repeat the outfit reflects her commitment to sustainable fashion, a practice she has embraced for years. Paired with a Sean Barrett hat and pearl earrings, the ensemble highlighted her understated elegance.
Kate’s connection to the Order of the Garter is also personal. In 2008, she attended the event as William’s girlfriend, marking her integration into the royal family. At the time, William was named the 1,000th knight of the order, a historic moment. Since then, Kate has accompanied her husband at several editions, solidifying her role as a central figure in the monarchy.
Other royals’ participation
The 2025 ceremony gathered a constellation of royals, each with a specific role. King Charles III, as sovereign of the Order, led the procession, joined by Queen Camilla, who wore a white chiffon dress beneath her ceremonial cape. Princess Anne, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester also paraded, reinforcing the royal family’s unity in high-symbolism events.
Notable members present:King Charles III, sovereign of the Order.Prince William, knighted in 2008.Queen Camilla, honored as a Royal Lady in 2022.Princess Anne, recognized for her public service.
The Duke of York, though a member of the Order, did not join the public procession but attended the private lunch and investiture, held behind closed doors. His absence from the parade reflects a decision to maintain a low profile, consistent with his withdrawal from public duties.
The event’s role in the royal calendar
The Order of the Garter is part of a vibrant period for the British monarchy. Held days after Trooping the Colour, the 2025 ceremony kicked off a week of engagements, including Royal Ascot, one of the world’s most prestigious horse races. The busy schedule reflects the royals’ role in upholding traditions and engaging the public.
St. George’s Chapel, where the ceremony takes place, holds deep historical significance. Beyond hosting the Order of the Garter, the chapel was the venue for royal weddings, such as Harry and Meghan’s in 2018. Its Gothic architecture and solemn atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for the event, blending spirituality and tradition.
The procession, accompanied by members of the Household Cavalry, including the Life Guards and the Blues and Royals, is one of the most anticipated moments. Hundreds of spectators, armed with chairs and picnic baskets, line the route, creating a festive atmosphere. The Grenadier Guards’ band adds grandeur, with marches echoing across the castle grounds.
Fashion and symbolism in the ceremony
The Order of the Garter’s attire is one of the event’s most striking elements. The blue velvet capes, adorned with gleaming insignia, and ostrich-plumed hats create an image reminiscent of the Middle Ages. For non-members like Kate and Sophie, outfit choices are equally important. Sophie opted for a light pink dress, paired with a wide-brimmed hat, complementing Kate’s look.
Queen Camilla, beneath her ceremonial cape, wore a chiffon and lace dress by designer Fiona Clare, paired with pearl and diamond jewelry. The choice of jewelry, such as pearl earrings and necklaces, was a common thread among the royal women, enhancing the event’s elegance.
Outfit details:Kate Middleton: white Self Portrait dress and Sean Barrett hat.Queen Camilla: Fiona Clare dress with pearl jewelry.Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh: light pink dress and wide-brimmed hat.
Kate and William’s connection to the Order
The Order of the Garter holds special meaning for Kate and William. Kate’s attendance in 2008, as William’s girlfriend, marked a moment of acceptance by the royal family. That year, William was honored as a knight, recognizing his future role as heir to the throne. Since then, the couple has been a regular presence at the event, except in 2024, when Kate prioritized her health.
The interaction between Kate and William during the 2025 ceremony also drew attention. During the procession, William tried to catch his wife’s eye, who was engrossed in conversation with Sophie. Later, the couple shared a carriage, where Kate was seen gazing affectionately at her husband, a gesture that highlighted their bond.
Tradition and modernity in Windsor
The Order of the Garter blends medieval elements with the modern monarchy. The inclusion of young pages, such as William Sackville and Alfred Wellesley, children of King Charles’s friends, adds a personal touch to the ceremony. These youths carry the knights’ capes, a role symbolizing continuity and renewal.
The presence of figures like Tony Blair and Andrew Lloyd Webber highlights the diversity of honorees. Blair, appointed in 2022, and Lloyd Webber, in 2024, represent contributions in politics and culture, showing that the Order extends beyond royalty or aristocracy. The inclusion of foreign monarchs, like King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, underscores the honor’s international character.
A milestone in Kate’s recovery
Kate’s participation in the Order of the Garter was a high point in her return to public duties. After a challenging year, her presence at events like Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter signals a steady, yet firm, comeback. The princess, mother to George, Charlotte, and Louis, has balanced her duties with family life, an effort that resonates with the public.
Her choice to repeat the Self Portrait dress also earned praise. Reusing clothing is a hallmark of Kate’s style, blending sustainability with elegance. Her look, paired with understated accessories, was described as a reflection of her practical yet refined approach.
The monarchy’s enduring relevance
The Order of the Garter is more than a ceremony; it’s a testament to the British monarchy’s resilience. In a rapidly changing world, events like this keep centuries of history alive. The presence of Kate, William, Charles, and other royals reinforces the idea of continuity, while public participation and media coverage amplify its relevance.
The 2025 Order of the Garter will be remembered for Kate Middleton’s return, the royal family’s unity, and the celebration of a timeless tradition. The event, with its blend of pomp, history, and emotion, continues to captivate both Britons and monarchy admirers worldwide.
