When the Princess of Wales stepped out for Trooping the Colour in 2024, she made headlines around the world . It was the first time that Kate had been seen since sharing the news of her cancer diagnosis - and she made every effort to ensure her return was kept under wraps. There were only a few people who knew of her plans.
The Princess personally called her father-in-law, King Charles - also undergoing cancer treatment - to tell him the good news, and he was understandably 'delighted' she could attend. Well aware of the buzz that would surround her return, Kate wanted to keep things low-key - and that approach even extended to her wardrobe. Rather than shop around for a new dress - news of which could be made public - she chose to upcycle a white dress she first wore on the eve of King Charles' coronation last year.
The simple white and black dress by British designer Jenny Packham was updated with black trim and ribbon embellishment on the neckline, as well as a black belt, and she wore a hat by Philip Treacy, and her Cassandra Goad Cavolfiore pearl studs — previously worn to Prince Louis' christening in 2018 and Wimbledon in 2023. Reusing the dress not only made a sustainable fashion statement , but it also served another purpose. "Just by reworking what she already owns, it allowed Kate to keep this secret [of her appearance] within her very closest and most trusted team ," said Bethan Holt, Fashion Director at the Telegraph.
“We definitely know that Kate has tailors .
