Kate Middleton made a meaningful nod to Princess Diana for her first public appearance of 2025 — which also marked her first solo engagement since she was diagnosed with cancer.
The Princess of Wales made a poignant, and polished, return to the Royal Marsden Hospital on Tuesday, January 14, in London, where Middleton, 43, revealed that in 2024 she underwent preventative chemotherapy treatment at the world-famous medical center in South Kensington.
Adding another layer of personal significance to the occasion, she debuted a mesmerizing new piece of jewelry: Cartier’s “Trinity” hoop earrings in white gold. Princess Diana was also known to admire the “Trinity” collection, frequently wearing a classic “Trinity” ring on her little finger.
The elegant hoop earrings retail for $1,670 and feature three intertwined bands of 18-carat white, yellow and rose gold. Cartier’s iconic “Trinity” collection, which marked its 100th anniversary last year, has attracted a devoted following of notable (and noble) figures throughout history.
Middleton’s visit to the Royal Marsden served as both a powerful statement of resilience and a stylish start to the new year as her carefully chosen, timeless accessories spoke volumes.
Kate Middleton in Cartier’s “Trinity” hoop earrings Getty Images
Along with Princess Diana and Princess Kate, Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco, favored the classic “Trinity” ring, as did Hollywood royalty and late German-French actress Romy Schneider.
Princess Diana wearing her Cartier “Trinity” ring in 1988 Getty Images
Middleton also debuted a striking new handbag (the latest in her 100-plus purse collection): the Asprey London “Wiltshire” in a vibrant cherry red. The top-handled style, retailing for $4,900, is a luxurious piece crafted from the most supple soft-grain cranberry leather. It had Asprey’s signature twist lock and polished gold hardware, adding a touch of refined glamour in line with her gold earrings.
Kate Middleton carrying an Asprey London handbag Getty Images
What made her new handbag particularly noteworthy was its customization. While the original “Wiltshire” design has an expandable cross-body strap, Middleton’s version came with a unique modification: a single, shorter strap accented by gold hoops, not unlike her new Cartier hoops.
The Princess of Wales’s visit to the Royal Marsden celebrated the announcement of her being in remission. It also highlighted her thoughtful approach to dressing for the occasion, blending classic, contemporary pieces with personal touches. Princess Diana, no doubt, would be proud.
