To the delight of many, Catherine, the Princess of Wales made her first public appearance months after disclosing her cancer diagnosis with the public. Looking as charming as ever, Kate accompanied her husband and her children to the Trooping of Color, a meaningful event that celebrated King Charles’ official birthday.
When it comes to her style, one thing is certain, Kate has always been impeccably dressed, and this time it wasn’t any different. She opted for a white dress with black trim and ribbon embellishment on the neckline, which was actually an upcycled version of an outfit she wore at an event at Buckingham Palace in May 2023.
The Princess completed her outfit with a white hat, pearl studs, and the Irish Guards Regimental Brooch, reflecting her honorary role. She typically styles her brunette hair in flowing waves, but on Tuesday, it appeared noticeably longer, and fans believe they know the reason.
“Her hair is getting so long. I wonder if she’s been growing it out in preparation for the coronation. The thought of this fills me with anticipation!” one wrote.
Indeed, Kate’s hair appeared longer than it has in recent years, retaining its thick and lustrous look.
However, there were also those who questioned Kate’s impeccable hair considering she is going through chemo.
“That’s not her,” a netizen said in disbelief, while another stated, “That’s not Kate.”
A third person expressed genuine curiosity, stating, “Want to know how she’s keeping her hair through chemotherapy… This is a serious question. I am not making a dig or anything like that…”
Some online users pondered the medical aspects, asking, “You can have chemotherapy and not lose your hair?”
Others asked: “Was William with her? And if she’s having chemo how come she still has her hair?”
“Always admire this elegant lady, how did her hair grow back so soon after chemotherapy??” someone else posted.
Seeking clarification respectfully, a user questioned, “Can I ask an honest question. I mean nothing rude or mean in asking this but, I though you lost your hair during chemo???? Do u think it’s a wig or maybe not all chemo makes u loose your hair. Again honest question, I’m not trying to be rude(sic).”
“I don’t know why I can’t believe that she’s illness(sic),” was yet another comment.
Of course, there were those who didn’t question anything related to Kate, they just expressed their delight over her decision to be there next to the King on the special day. “Going through chemotherapy and still looking radiant!” someone wrote.
Shortly before her first public appearance in six months, Kate opened up of her condition in a genuine post she shared on Instagram.
Posing beside a majestic tree, symbolizing resilience amidst her treatment, Kate wrote among the rest, “I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement.”
Discussing the chemo treatments she undergoes, she said, “On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.”
She concluded her post thanking to everyone who has offered support and well-wishes. “Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me.”
As expected, the public’s response to her Instagram post was overwhelmingly supportive.
“Wishing you lots of health and a steady recovery. Sending you lots of strength and patience ❤️,” one person commented, while other referred to her as to “a brave woman.”
Another topic related to Kate buzzing among netizens was the recent portrait of her found on the cover of Tatler magazine.
Painted by British-Zambian artist Hannah Uzor, who has previously done portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles, the portrait of Kate caused a stir as many appeared not to be fans of it claiming it didn’t resemble the Princess at all.
“Is this a joke?” someone commented under the Instagram post of the magazine, while another person added, “This is not HRH The Princess of Wales. God knows who it is, but it is not HRH.” There were those who found the quality of the portrait an insult.
The criticism of Catherine’s portrait arose following Charles’ unveiling of his all-red portrait by artist Jonathan Yeo, which depicted the King in the red uniform of the Welsh Guards.
Prior to the excitement and controversy surrounding the royal portraits, Charles bestowed an important title upon Catherine.
In April, he appointed her a Royal Companion of the Order of the Companions of Honour at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.
Catherine is the first member of the royal family to be honored with this distinction. Established by King George V in 1917, the prestigious award acknowledges exceptional achievements in the arts, science, medicine, or government.