A Princess’s Style Evolution: Princess Catherine’s stunning look combines a flower gown with a precious necklace from Princess Diana’s collection.

Catherine, Princess of Wales: A Modern Royal Fashion Icon Bridging Past and Present at the BAFTAs

Once again, Catherine, Princess of Wales, captivated the world’s attention, proving why she is celebrated as a modern icon of royal fashion. At the prestigious British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards—often dubbed the “British Oscars”—held at the illustrious Royal Albert Hall, Catherine dazzled the crowd, sharing the spotlight with Prince William.

A Fairytale Entrance on the Red Carpet

Under the radiant flashes of photographers and the glamour of the evening, Catherine was the very image of regal elegance. She graced the red carpet in a breathtaking gown adorned with delicate floral embroidery—a seamless blend of timeless royal grace and contemporary sophistication. The gown’s soft palette and flowing silhouette lent her an ethereal presence, while the intricate flower details brought a sense of freshness and vitality. Fashion critics and royal watchers alike hailed her look as one of the night’s most unforgettable moments.

A Necklace Steeped in Royal History

Yet what truly set Catherine’s ensemble apart was her choice of jewelry: a pearl choker necklace with profound emotional resonance. This four-strand pearl choker, centered with a dazzling diamond clasp, once belonged to the late Princess Diana. More than a stunning accessory, it is a powerful symbol of royal heritage and emotional continuity.

Crafted by the renowned jeweler Garrard, the necklace was originally a gift from the Japanese government to Queen Elizabeth II. Princess Diana made it iconic, famously wearing it in 1982 at an official luncheon with Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. Catherine has since worn this cherished piece on several significant occasions, including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip’s 70th wedding anniversary in 2017 and again in 2021, underscoring how royal treasures are lovingly passed down and reimagined through generations.

Honoring Diana’s Legacy Through Jewelry

The pearl choker is not the only precious heirloom Catherine has inherited from her late mother-in-law. Perhaps the most famous is her engagement ring—a mesmerizing 12-carat oval blue sapphire encircled by 14 diamonds, also crafted by Garrard. Originally chosen by Diana in 1981, the ring was entrusted to Catherine when Prince William proposed in 2010.

“It’s extremely significant to me. As Catherine is extremely important to me, it was only right she would wear my mother’s ring,” Prince William once shared. Today, the ring stands as a symbol not only of love and commitment but also of Princess Diana’s enduring legacy within the royal family.

Sapphire Earrings: A Modern Take on a Royal Classic

Catherine has also breathed new life into Diana’s sapphire and diamond earrings, a gift from the Saudi Crown Prince. Once styled as double-drop earrings, Catherine had them redesigned into a more contemporary single-drop style, making them perfect for both grand occasions and everyday elegance. Yet, during the Trooping the Colour ceremony at Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, Catherine wore the earrings in their original double-drop form—a heartfelt tribute to Diana. The sparkling sapphires and diamonds glimmered with timeless grace, echoing Diana’s legendary style.

Blending Tradition with Modernity

With each carefully curated public appearance, Catherine masterfully bridges royal tradition and modern sensibility. By weaving Princess Diana’s most treasured pieces into her own narrative, she not only honors her late mother-in-law but also strengthens the emotional thread connecting generations of the royal family.

Through her thoughtful fashion choices and deep respect for history, Catherine stands as more than just the future Queen—she is a symbol of poise, continuity, and a living tribute to the remarkable woman who came before her.