Catherine, the Princess of Wales Appears at State Visit for the First Time Since 2023

The last time we saw Catherine, the Princess of Wales at a state visit to the United Kingdom was in November 2023 when she joined to welcome the South Korean president and his wife. In January this year, she took time off from public duty due to an abdominal surgery, then in March, she announced she was undergoing chemotherapy treatment due to cancer. 

Sheikha Jawaher, the wife of the Emir of Qatar, and Catherine

Months ago, she announced the end of her chemotherapy treatment and was ready to return to public life. The recent state visit of the Emir of Qatar was Kate's first appearance in a state visit of a foreign head of state. She accompanied Prince William to welcome the Qatari royal couple at Horse Guards Parade with King Charles III. 

Kate joined them at Buckingham Palace for an afternoon reception, however, she did not attend the formal state banquet later in the evening. Nonetheless, her short appearance indicated her health and return to public duties. 

For her appearance, the Princess of Wales wore maroon ensembles to pay tribute to the national flag of Qatar. A stunning coat dress from Alexander McQueen, a hat, and a pair of long leather boots from Gianvito Rossi. She also carried a small bag from Chanel.

But what impressed us during her short public appearance was the necklace she wore. The four-strand pearl choker with a diamond clasp. We assumed this piece was a permanent loan from the late Queen who commissioned Garrard to create a head topper from the pearls gifted to her by the Japanese government during her state visit to Japan in the 1970s.