Kate Middleton and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh were firm friends at the Order of the Garter service at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on 16 June
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Kate Middleton and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, showcased their enduring bond as they celebrated Garter Day at Windsor. It was a big day for the Princess of Wales, marking her first Garter Day since 2023 after she stepped back from public duties last year in the wake of her cancer diagnosis.
Thankfully, Catherine could rely on one of the royal family’s secret weapons to support her on the big day. Stood by the Princess’s side as she watched the procession from Galilee Porch was the Duchess of Edinburgh, whose support during last year’s rocky period for the Firm has left many commentators referring to her as the House of Windsor’s rock. Kate and Sophie were also joined by Princess Alexandra, the Honourable Lady Ogilvy, and Princess Anne’s husband, Sir Timothy Laurence. The Duke of Kent joined later, in an automobile escort.
Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy, joined the royal pair as they watched the procession, which included Prince William, Prince Edward, the King and Queen, and the Gloucesters
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The pair seemed to be enjoying a warm conversation as they prepared to watch King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince William, Prince Edward, and the Gloucesters lead the Garter Day festivities. As if that wasn’t enough to remind royal watchers of their friendship, the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Edinburgh looked like they’d matched up their wardrobes, the picture of Spring perfection in cream and baby pink ensembles.
Catherine turned to one of her most trusted designers, Self Portrait, for the occasion. If the cream chiffon midi dress and blazer bodice looked familiar, it’s because the Princess had previously donned the outfit for VE Day celebrations last month, though for Garter Day, she paired the look with a chic hat by Sean Barrett. From her jewellery box, Catherine wore a vintage pair of pearl earrings (also part of her VE Day look). As for Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh opted for a pale pink wrap-style dress and matching hat.