The year 2025 marked a significant and stylish return to public life for Catherine, Princess of Wales. After announcing in January that her cancer was in remission, Kate gradually resumed a full schedule of royal duties, captivating onlookers each time with her impeccably judged wardrobe.
A Triumphant Return Defined by Style
Throughout the year, the Princess of Wales delivered a masterclass in modern royal dressing, balancing high-glamour couture for state occasions with trusted, chic staples for day-to-day engagements. Her choices celebrated both esteemed British designers and accessible high-street fashion, reinforcing her status as a global style icon whose outfits are meticulously analysed and often emulated.
State Banquets and Tiara Triumphs
The pinnacle of Kate's sartorial year came during three major state banquets held at Windsor Castle. In July, for the French state visit, she stunned in a sweeping red silk gown by Sarah Burton for Givenchy. For the US state banquet in September, she chose a bespoke gold and ivory Phillipa Lepley gown featuring intricate floral lace.
Both events saw her accessorise with the iconic Lover's Knot Tiara, a favourite piece of her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. However, for the German state banquet in December, Kate made a breathtaking historical choice, debuting the rarely seen Queen Victoria's Oriental Circlet Tiara paired with a sparkling icy-blue Jenny Packham gown.
Championing British Fashion Day to Day
Between the glittering evening events, Kate's daytime wardrobe showcased her support for British design talent and practical elegance. Key moments included:
- May: A bespoke aubergine Emilia Wickstead coatdress for VE Day anniversary commemorations.
- June: A Catherine Walker turquoise coat dress for Trooping the Colour and a white Self-Portrait dress for the Order of the Garter.
- Autumn/Winter: Rewearing a Victoria Beckham suit, an Emilia Wickstead houndstooth dress, and a forest green Catherine Walker coat for her Together at Christmas concert.
She also chose elegant ensembles for diplomatic greetings, including a pale pink Dior outfit for President Macron and a striking burgundy Emilia Wickstead coat dress for President Trump's arrival.
Whether in a bespoke ballgown or a re-worn favourite, the Princess of Wales's style in 2025 was thoughtful, strategic, and powerfully symbolic of her resilient return to the forefront of royal life. Her fashion narrative beautifully intertwined personal recovery with public duty, cementing her position as one of the world's most admired and best-dressed royals.
