Kate Middleton Dressed to Impress During Surprise Appearance in Honor of the Late Queen Elizabeth

It’s been 3 years since the monarch passed

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Where were you on the day that Queen Elizabeth II died? That’s the question a lot of people the world over are likely reflecting on today as September 8 marks the third anniversary since the monarch passed in 2022 at age 96. But Kate Middleton and Prince William are turning a somber memory into a joyful one, stepping out for an appearance at the Women’s Institute in Berkshire, located not too far from their Windsor home.

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Queen Elizabeth was famously a member of the WI, which is the U.K.’s largest women’s group, for 80 years and served as president of the organization’s Sandringham branch from 2003 until her death, according to People. During their visit, the Prince and Princess of Wales met with members and had the chance to learn more about how the WI helps foster connections, skills and community projects. They also heard about Queen Elizabeth’s participation—including how she would join in for tea and conversation over the years.

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As for the surprise, William was always expected to attend, but having Kate by his side was the part that was unplanned. In the wake of her cancer treatment, it’s nice that the Princess of Wales continues to maintain a more flexible royal schedule—an intention she set publicly when she first announced she had completed her treatment last fall.

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In typical fashion, the Princess of Wales also dressed to impress wearing an Alessandra Rich gray plaid midi dress with an oversized Peter Pan collar, plus a pair of gray leather pumps and Kiki McDonough earrings.

One thing’s for sure, three years goes by fast.



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Senior Director, Special Projects and Royals

  • Writes and produces family, fashion, wellness, relationships, money and royals content
  • Podcast co-host and published author with a book about the British Royal Family
  • Studied sociology at Wheaton College and received a masters degree in journalism from Emerson College