Sentimental pieces of jewelry have kept Kate Middleton close to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana: her sapphire engagement ring from Prince William, the Collingwood pearl earrings given to Diana as a wedding gift, the Saudi sapphire suite that Kate had made into earrings. But it’s in the fashion and style of Kate Middleton—now long Catherine, Princess of Wales—that their connection has deepened.
Catherine shares similar penchants for Diana’s signature details: polka-dots and plaids, jewel tones and candy shades, a suite of fascinators and wide-brimmed hats. Both royals have relied on striking looks by Catherine Walker, Alexander McQueen, and Jenny Packham for their global tours, galas, and public engagements. Tailoring has always been sharp shouldered and nipped in at the waist, while headgear is always by Juliette Botterill, Philip Treacy, and Jules Millinery. Kiki McDonough—who was recently awarded a Royal Warrant—and her elegant jewelry were often a finishing touch for Diana, and Catherine reportedly owns around 20 pieces.
The sartorial lineage looks to already be continuing with young Princess Charlotte, who Catherine has coordinated with on several occasions—including the 2025 Trooping the Colour celebrations. Both wore brilliant aqua looks, which made the callback to another Princess Diana look even sweeter.
Below, all the times Princess Catherine emulated Princess Diana with her style.
