The Princess of Wales made a stunning appearance at a UK state banquet on September 17, 2025, wearing an elegant gold lace ensemble that captivated royal watchers at Windsor Castle. Kate Middleton joined Prince William and other members of the royal family for the formal dinner hosted by King Charles in honor of President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.
According to People, the royal couple appeared “regal as they arrive for the state banquet” at the historic venue. The formal event marked another significant public appearance for the princess as she continues her gradual return to royal duties following her cancer treatment and recovery.
The September appearance comes after a year of significant health challenges for Middleton, who underwent major abdominal surgery in January 2024. Following the procedure, doctors discovered cancer, which she publicly announced on March 22, 2024. She completed chemotherapy treatment by September 9, 2024, and announced her remission in January 2025.
Royal observers have noted Middleton’s transformed appearance throughout 2025, particularly her decision to lighten her traditionally brunette hair to a golden blonde shade. The dramatic color change debuted during a visit to Scotland in late August, where she was photographed leaving a church service in Crathie with Prince William. Hair stylists described the transformation as one of the most significant of her royal career.
The princess maintained her lighter hair color for subsequent appearances, including a September 4 visit to the Natural History Museum in London. During that engagement, she wore a navy Ralph Lauren blazer with a white shirt and tailored slacks, allowing her golden highlights to remain the focal point of her refreshed look.
Throughout 2025, Middleton has made carefully selected public appearances as part of her recovery process. She attended Trooping the Colour on June 14, marking her first appearance at the annual birthday parade for the monarch since announcing her remission. The event represented a significant milestone, as she had never missed the ceremony during her 14-plus years as a working royal.
In May, she joined Prince William for a romantic trip to the Scottish Isle of Mull to celebrate their 14th wedding anniversary. The overnight official engagement marked her first time staying away from home for work since completing cancer treatment. The couple stayed in a private self-catered cottage while conducting royal duties supporting local community spaces.
At a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on May 20, Middleton chose a butter-yellow wrap dress with structured shoulders and a flowing skirt. She accessorized with the same diamond acorn earrings from Robinson Pelham that she wore at her 2011 wedding to Prince William, along with her sapphire engagement ring that previously belonged to Princess Diana.
Former royal staff members have revealed insights into Middleton’s surprisingly simple beauty routine, which consists of just five steps. Anne Simmons, who worked at Buckingham Palace for over a decade, described the princess as incredibly organized with no luxury overload. The routine includes cold water, argan oil for hair ends, light moisturizer, quiet reflection time with tea, and minimal makeup application.
During the Christmas season, Middleton hosted the fourth annual Together at Christmas caroling service on December 6, 2024, at Westminster Abbey. She arrived alone before meeting William and their three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. The princess wore a long red coat with black bow collar, paired with pearl earrings and heeled boots.
At the Christmas event, Middleton made rare remarks about her challenging year when asked by pop star Paloma Faith. She acknowledged that she did not anticipate the unplanned difficulties she would face, while noting that many people experienced challenging times during 2024. The service was broadcast on ITV and ITVX on Christmas Eve.
Royal biographers have observed that Middleton is returning to public life at her own pace, prioritizing her health and family time. Her appearances throughout 2025 demonstrate a careful balance between royal duties and personal recovery, with each engagement marking significant progress in her journey back to full royal responsibilities.
