The Princess of Wales dazzled today as she proudly watched King Charles lead the Royal Family at the annual ancient Order of the Garter ceremony at Windsor Castle. The King, wearing traditional velvet robes and a plumed hat, smiled as he presided over the elaborate display of pomp and pageantry in blazing sunshine.
Procession and Pageantry
The Queen, also dressed in the order's full regalia, walked alongside the King as the procession snaked down from the castle's quadrangle to St George's Chapel. Ahead of them, the Prince of Wales chatted with his uncle, the Duke of Edinburgh, just behind the Princess Royal. They were watched from the Galilee Porch by Kate, the Duchess of Edinburgh, and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.
Kate's Stunning Outfit
Kate wore a pale yellow coat dress by Patrick McDowell, whom she presented with the Queen Elizabeth II prize for British design last year. The fabric was woven by Stephen Walters & Sons in Suffolk, and she finished her look with a wide-brimmed hat by Jane Taylor, trimmed with the same fabric, and earrings by Robinson & Pelham. She and Sophie, who wore a white dress with a pink and blue floral motif and matching hat, waved to the crowd and chatted animatedly as they waited.
Royal Interactions
As the royal party passed, there were nods and smiles of recognition for Garter companions, followed by a smile from Prince William for Kate. The Duchess of Edinburgh did likewise for Prince Edward. Both women curtsied as the King and Queen, both smiling broadly, came into view. The Duke of Kent and Lady Mary Peters attended the service but did not take part in the procession.
The Service and New Companions
The service began with the installation of new Garter knights, who took their places in their stalls, followed by the King, before the congregation joined in the Lord's Prayer. After the service, the royal family departed by carriages for their return to the castle. Three new Companions were invested earlier: Lord Hennessy of Nympsfield, Lord O'Donnell, and Lord Burnett of Maldon, chosen for outstanding public service.
Other Royal News
The ex-Prince Andrew, stripped of his Order of Merit last October, spent the day at his new home on the King's Sandringham estate after his eviction from Royal Lodge. The ceremony heralds a busy period, with the King, Queen, and Prince and Princess of Wales expected at Royal Ascot in the coming days. The Order of the Garter, founded in 1348 by King Edward III, is the oldest and most senior Order of Chivalry in Britain.
