Members of the British royal family attended the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey. Kate Middleton attended the service wearing a dark blue Erdem suit, a Philip Treacy hat and Gianvitto Rossi pumps. She accessorized her look with a pair of sapphire earrings, once belonging to Princess Diana, and a diamond brooch from the Elizabeth II collection.
On this day the weather did not please the guests. Because of the strong gusts of wind, those present had to hold on to their hats. Kate rose to the challenge gracefully. However, Prince William’s wife was still unable to avoid criticism. Many wondered why Middleton, in keeping with tradition, did not curtsy to her father-in-law, King Charles III.
It is royal protocol for the Princess of Wales to curtsy to Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla along with other members of the royal family, including Princess Anne, Countess Sophie of Wessex, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. The male monarchs for their part respectfully bow their heads to the king and his consort.
Palace etiquette experts have explained the Princess of Wales’ “oversight”. She only has to perform this action the first time each day she sees the monarch and his wife. So, despite the two couples arriving at the Abbey in separate cars, it became clear that Charles and Camilla were meeting William and Kate before the official event.
Consort Queen Camilla, who accompanied King Charles III to the event, appeared in public in a bright blue monochrome look: an elegant Fiona Clare coat and a Philip Treacy hat with feathers. She completed the outfit with black leather gloves, a matching clutch and a historic brooch with sapphires and diamonds.
