Those Diamond Earrings Kate Middleton Wore? They Once Belonged to the Queen and There’s More
When Kate Middleton stepped out for the 2025 Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London, she didn’t just arrive; she made a statement. Draped in a lush emerald-green velvet gown, the Princess of Wales brought old-world elegance fused with modern poise. The dress, reportedly from Talbot Runhof, featured a figure-hugging bodice, ruched detailing, and a graceful mermaid hem that swept the floor. Velvet has always had a regal aura—think royal banquets, vintage ballrooms, and black-tie glamour—and Kate chose the fabric masterfully. The deep green hue, rich and velvety, evokes a sense of timeless luxury. The gown’s tailoring emphasizes her silhouette without sacrificing sophistication. The off-shoulder neckline and fitted form feel modern, while the mermaid cut adds classic drama.
A Heirloom Moment: Diamonds from the Queen
What truly elevated Kate’s look were the accessories. She was seen wearing Queen Elizabeth’s Greville Chandelier Diamond Earrings, a piece of royal history and craftsmanship. These stunning Art Deco earrings, crafted by Cartier, were originally owned by Dame Margaret Greville and later passed down through the royal family. Paired with a delicate diamond bar bracelet that once belonged to Queen Mary, Kate’s jewellery choices carried weight, heritage, and grace. By choosing these heirloom pieces, Kate was not just looking beautiful; she was paying tribute. The earrings and bracelet embody a legacy of continuity, reinforcing her role as a modern royal who honors her predecessors while charting her own path.
Fashion as Homage: Shades of Diana
This look also felt like a subtle nod to Princess Diana, a timeless echo rather than imitation. Kate’s silhouette, particularly the gown’s cut and drape, mirrors an iconic off-the-shoulder evening gown Diana once wore during a state visit to Germany in 1987. The similarity is not coincidental; Kate has often drawn inspiration from Diana’s style, blending homage with her own regal fashion identity. By channeling that classic evening elegance, Kate reinforces her connection to royal tradition and past generations while still presenting a fresh, empowered runway-worthy moment on the red carpet.
Colour Symbolism and Green as Royal Identity
Emerald green is more than just a stunning shade; it is symbolic. Green often represents renewal, growth, and hope—perhaps an intentional choice as Kate returns to public royal duties. After her health journey and time away, wearing green to such a high-profile event feels like a powerful visual of resurgence and resilience. Moreover, green has long been associated with royalty and heritage. For Kate, the colour underscores both her role as a royal figure and her deep respect for legacy. She was not just wearing a gown but embodying a lineage.
Styling the Entire Look: Elegance in Every Detail
Kate did not stop at the gown and jewels. She carried a shimmering Jenny Packham clutch and wore matching emerald velvet Manolo Blahnik heels, seamlessly coordinating the richness of her ensemble. Her hairstyle, with soft and loose curls, softened the overall look, allowing the earrings to shine without distraction. Every element felt intentional, from the dress to the heirloom jewels and the accessories that spoke to tradition, elegance, and subtle power. It is not just about looking royal but about feeling royal, and Kate nailed that balance.
What Her Look Means for Fashion and Royal Style
Kate’s appearance was a fashion moment and a cultural moment combined. Borrowing from royal vaults carries meaning beyond glamour; it reaffirms her commitment to royal continuity, sustainability (in a sense, by recycling precious pieces), and storytelling through style. Her use of historically significant jewellery also highlights a broader trend in modern royal fashion, where glamour and heritage intertwine. It exemplifies how royals can mix sentimentality with high fashion, making couture feel personal and relevant.
In that emerald velvet gown and heirloom diamonds, Kate Middleton reminded the world why she is not just a princess; she is a style icon. Her look was regal without being stiff, modern without abandoning tradition. Through colour, cut, and carefully chosen jewels, she told a story of legacy, resilience, and timeless elegance. In doing so, she made the 2025 Royal Variety Performance her runway—a moment where fashion met meaning and legacy met the now.
