The Gist
Kate Middleton visited Reggio Emilia on May 13.
For the occasion, she wore a chic blue pantsuit, which carries a deeper symbolic meaning.
The shade is Italy’s historic national color, dating back to the 1300s.
Kate Middleton has arrived in Italy, and for her visit to Reggio Emilia on Wednesday, May 13, she wore a chic pantsuit by Canadian-British designer Edeline Lee in a symbolic color.
Kate Middleton in Reggio Emilia on May 13, 2026.
Credit: Getty Images
The ensemble, crafted in the shade of cornflower blue, pays homage to Italy’s historic national color: Savoy azzurro (Savoy blue). The shade dates back to 1366, when Conte Verde, Amedeo VI of Savoy, displayed a blue flag on his flagship while on a crusade. He then declared it the country’s national color. Since then, it’s been used on the uniforms for Italy’s military and its national football team.
Rather than wear the colors of the Italian flag (white, green, and red), the Princess of Wales decided to tap into Italy’s rich history and culture. The intention is fitting, as she holds a degree in Art History from the University of St. Andrews.
Kate Middleton in Reggio Emilia on May 13, 2026.
Credit: Getty Images
For her Edeline Lee look, Kate wore the Lola jacket ($2,020) and paired it with the Averill trousers ($970). She accessorized with a blue purse by Asprey London and pearl jewelry by Monica Vinader, per Tatler.
The color blue is also known to represent tranquility and serenity. As this is Kate’s first official international trip since her cancer diagnosis in 2024 (she announced that she is in remission in 2025), she may be sending a subtle message about her emotional state.
Kate Middleton in Reggio Emilia on May 13, 2026.
A royal aide spoke with People ahead of the trip, and said Kate was “energized, enthused, and excited. The insider added, “She’s looking forward to seeing Reggio Emilia in action and meeting the people here, too.”
Read the original article on InStyle