Yesterday afternoon, at the windswept National Memorial Arboretum, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, attended the annual Service of Remembrance on behalf of the royal family. This was not only her first time at the event—and a rare instance of a non-blood royal taking on this role—but she also played a part in shaping it by commissioning poet Arji Manuelpillai to write a tribute for the occasion.

Titled “A Sonnet For Us All,” the poem aimed to highlight the bonds and relationships often overshadowed by conflict. Manuelpillai explained that it focuses on quiet acts of care, enduring friendships, and the sense of duty linking generations. He noted that these themes of human connection and the gentle responsibility to carry love forward resonate with him and the Princess of Wales, who holds service and compassion close to her heart.

The Princess wore a Catherine Walker coat dress, which she had previously worn for Remembrance Sunday in 2019 and 2023, featuring decorative frogging reminiscent of styles seen on recent runways. She joined attendees in a two-minute silence, reflected on the poet’s words and the newly inscribed names on the memorial, and laid a wreath with a handwritten note: “In memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we will remember them.” She also spent time with veterans and their families, sharing that her son Prince George is fond of World War II model airplanes.

Her choice of earrings—ruby drops surrounded by diamonds from G Collins & Sons—may have held personal significance, as rubies are the birthstone for July, a subtle nod to George. These earrings have been worn only twice before: for the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May and to greet the Trumps during their state visit in September.

Prince George had joined his mother for the VE Day tea party at Buckingham Palace, one of several engagements he’s taken on at the same age his father, Prince William, began his royal duties. Recently, George made his first appearance at the Royal British Legion’s Festival of Remembrance, while William was returning from the Earthshot Prize Awards and COP30 summit in Brazil. Although it’s uncertain if George will enroll at Eton this September, his public duties are expected to increase as the palace prepares him for his future role as heir to the throne.

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the story behind Kate Middletons Armistice Day earrings designed to be clear concise and natural

BeginnerLevel Questions

1 What are the Armistice Day earrings
They are a pair of diamond and platinum drop earrings that Kate the Princess of Wales wore to the Armistice Day service in 2023

2 Why did Kate Middletons earrings get so much attention
They received attention because they were a personal symbolic tribute to the armed forces and the occasion rather than just a fashion choice

3 Who made the earrings
The earrings were created by the British luxury jeweler Kiki McDonough a designer whose pieces Kate has worn frequently over the years

4 What do the earrings look like
They are elegant dangling earrings featuring a brilliantcut diamond drop suspended from a diamond stud all set in platinum

5 What is Armistice Day
Armistice Day on November 11th is a national day of remembrance in the UK to honor the members of the armed forces who have died in the line of duty since World War I

Advanced Detailed Questions

6 What is the specific symbolism behind these earrings
The earrings are seen as a subtle but powerful nod to the military Their design is reminiscent of a starburst or firework which can symbolize hope and the light of peace fitting for a solemn remembrance event

7 Is there a connection to the Remembrance Poppy
While not a direct representation the diamonds sparkle and the earrings overall luminous effect are interpreted as a refined jewelrybased equivalent of the bright red poppy which is the universal symbol of remembrance

8 Did Kate Middleton choose these earrings for a specific personal reason
While not officially confirmed it is widely believed she chose them intentionally for their symbolic value As the Princess of Wales and wife to William the future head of the armed forces her fashion choices often carry diplomatic and respectful undertones for official events

9 How does this choice fit into Kates broader style strategy
This is a classic example of Kates Jewelry Diplomacy She frequently uses her accessories to send a supportive respectful or symbolic message often by wearing pieces from British designers