Princess Kate makes sweet nod to the late Queen as she supports Victoria Beckham

WATCH HERE: Princess Kate arrives at Royal Design Awards

GB News
Marcus Donaldson

By Marcus Donaldson


Published: 14/05/2025

- 22:43

Kate presented the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design to winner Patrick McDowell at the event

Princess Kate has included a heartwarming nod to the late Queen Elizabeth in her outfit as she attended the Award for British Design named after the late monarch.

The 43-year-old Princess of Wales’s wardrobe choice also made headlines as a olive branch to Victoria Beckham.


Kate attended the awards sporting a sophisticated khaki power suit from her friend Beckham's Spring collection.

However, the tribute to Queen Elizabeth II was more subtle and could be found in the princesses' choice of earring.

Princess Kate

Princess Kate's earrings were a subtle tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.

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She wore a pair of stunning Bahrain Pearl Drop earrings, which were meaningful pieces inherited from her husband Prince William's grandmother.

According to The Court Jeweller, these earrings were created using pearls that the then-Princess Elizabeth received as a wedding gift from the Hakim of Bahrain in 1947.

The elegant pieces feature round and baguette diamonds dangling down to pearls.

Kate has worn these earrings exclusively since 2016, including at Queen Elizabeth's state funeral in September 2022.

Princess Kate

The Bahrain Pearl Drop earrings were a wedding gift to the late queen from the Hakim of Bahrain in 1947.

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This choice added a poignant connection to the award that was first presented by the Queen in 2018.

The occasion marked Queen Elizabeth II's first visit to London Fashion Week at the age of 91.

It was also the late monarch's debut appearance on the famed 'frow' - front row - alongside legendary Vogue editor Anna Wintour.

The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design recognises designers who are leading the way in sustainable practices and making a positive impact on the environment.

Princess Kate

Kate's outfit was chosen from Victoria Beckham's Spring collection.

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This year's winner, Patrick McDowell, 29, expressed his gratitude for receiving the prestigious award from the Princess.

"It's a huge privilege and honour," he said.

McDowell praised Kate's contribution to the industry, stating: "Throughout her tenure she's been an amazing advocate of British fashion and really flies the flag for British fashion."

He added: "She also looks incredible and is a real style icon. It is extra special to receive an award from her today."

Princess Kate

Kate presented the award, named after the late queen, to winner Patrick McDowell.

Getty

The designer also acknowledged the broader royal support, noting: "The Royal Family has been incredibly supportive from Queen Elizabeth II and the King."

During her visit, Kate toured McDowell's pop-up studio to see how his sustainable designs are created.

"I love British fashion and up and coming designers," the Princess was overheard saying.

She also expressed her appreciation for "sustainability in the fashion industry" while chatting with models about the design and cut of their outfits.

The royal burst into surprised laughter when shown a new jacket design called a Wales Bar.

When Kate asked about the name, McDowell revealed: "I named it in your honour."