Why Princess Kate Didn’t Wear A Ceremonial Robe to King Charles’ Second Coronation

On Wednesday, July 5th, Prince William and Kate made an appearance in Edinburgh for the National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication. The service was held in honor of King Charles’ coronation in London on May 6.

Prince William and Princess Kate traveled to Scotland to show their support for King Charles and Queen Camilla on this significant day, which marked the highlight of the first Royal Week of the new royal reign.

As she arrived at the ceremony in a procession, Kate paid homage to the Scottish flag by wearing a striking blue coatdress from one of her preferred designers, Catherine Walker.

She complemented the outfit with a matching hat by Philip Treacy. This particular dress had been previously worn by the Princess of Wales at an Easter service in St George’s Chapel earlier in the year.

To complete her elegant ensemble, she adorned herself with Queen Elizabeth’s pearl choker necklace and Princess Diana’s pearl drop earrings.

Some royal observers might be curious as to why the Princess of Wales did not don ceremonial robes like her husband Prince William, King Charles, and Queen Camilla. The reason is quite simple: Charles, Camilla, and William are all members of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s most prestigious chivalric order.

Charles serves as the sovereign of the Order, and appointments to the Order are entirely at his discretion. It recognizes Scottish individuals who have held prominent public positions or made significant contributions to national life.

During the event, the trio adorned themselves with the robes of the Order of the Thistle. Camilla paired her robes with a feathered cap adorned with a large white plume.

In contrast, for King Charles’ Coronation at Westminster Abbey in May, Kate wore a beautiful white silk dress designed by Alexander McQueen. The ivory gown featured exquisite embroidery at the hem, which peeked out from under her formal blue robe.

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