Kate Middleton’s Dazzling Return to the Irish Guards St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, participated in the Irish Guards’ annual St. Patrick’s Day parade with grace and elegance, wearing a striking green ensemble. Her appearance marked her first solo engagement as Colonel-in-Chief of the Irish Guards.
Fashion Highlights
During the event, Kate Middleton chose a customized green coat by renowned designer Alexander McQueen—a piece she previously debuted in Boston during the Earthshot Prize Awards journey in December 2022. Complementing her look was a Lock & Co. hat, first worn at the 2019 St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Earrings: Green tourmaline and diamond drop earrings by Kiki McDonough.
- Brooch: Traditional Irish Guards gold shamrock Cartier brooch adorned with an emerald.
- Bag: The black Grace Han Love Letter bag.
The Significance of the Gold Shamrock Brooch
The gold shamrock brooch with a central emerald holds historical value. While some believe it was once Queen Alexandra’s, it officially appeared in photos with the Queen Mother. Notably, Kate has worn this exclusive emblem since 2011.
Engagements at the Parade
As Colonel-in-Chief of the Irish Guards, Kate connected with Guardsmen and their families, offering a half pint of Guinness at the Sergeants’ Mess in Wellington Barracks. She expressed her apologies for missing the previous year due to health challenges.
Kate also distributed operational medals and traditional shamrock sprigs to members of the regiment. She engaged with Turlough Mor, affectionately known as Seamus, the event’s Irish Wolfhound mascot.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
The Princess of Wales shared insights on managing her duties and family life, noting the complexities of balancing both. Moreover, she expressed a keen interest in revisiting Australia with her children, reminiscing about a previous visit in 2014 when Prince George was only nine months old.
Highlighting her love for travel, Kate fondly recalled her time in Jordan, stating, “I love to travel… But I love the Middle East because that’s familiar to me.” She emphasized the significance of experiencing cultures beyond official duties.
Celebrating a Legacy
Princess Kate assumed the role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Irish Guards in March 2023, following Prince William’s tenure beginning in 2011. This year, the Irish Guards commemorate their 125th anniversary, a milestone that underscores their historic and ceremonial importance.
