Kate Middleton turned heads during her recent royal appearance, stepping out in a look that subtly echoed one of Princess Diana’s most memorable style moments.
The Princess of Wales attended an event honoring Cancer Research U.K. at St. James’s Palace on June 2 alongside King Charles. The reception highlighted the challenging and rewarding work of cancer researchers, clinicians, and volunteers, as reported by Tatler.
The pair, along with Camilla Parker Bowles, marked the 125th anniversary of the organization. Their appearance at the event was particularly poignant as both Kate and Charles have battled cancer.
Kate declared she was cancer-free in September 2024 after she revealed in March that she was being treated for an undisclosed form of the disease. She shared via a YouTube video clip, “It is a relief to now be in remission, and I remain focused on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. There is much to look forward to.”
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Charles was also diagnosed around the same time as his daughter-in-law and continues ongoing treatment.
The princess stepped out in a gorgeous red polka-dot dress by Rodarte, Tattler reported. The outfit featured her favorite style of A-line skirt, a form-fitting waist, and retro-puffed sleeves. She paired the dress with Gianvito Rossi heels and a diamond and ruby necklace.
Kate’s look echoed a style favored by Princess Diana, Prince William‘s mother. Diana famously wore polka dots throughout the 1980s, when the classic print was very much in style.
British Vogue reported that the late royal wore the print many times throughout her tenure as a senior royal. Often, polka dots appeared on dresses, while in other instances, she incorporated them into socks, gowns, and even neckties.
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Royal followers shared their thoughts on Kate’s most recent appearance in the caption of an Instagram video clip posted to the Prince and Princess of Wales’ page.
“Gorgeous in that elegant dress,” wrote one fan. “Such a joy watching Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales in good health and attending this event so close to her heart,” noted a second follower.
A third fan penned, “Making a difference event after event. HRH the Princess of Wales devotes herself to making people feel seen, listened to and cared about. An inspiration wrapped in the perfect Polka Dot Dress of 2026.”
Kate Middleton is expected to attend the official birthday for the sovereign, Trooping the Color, scheduled to take place in London on Saturday, June 13, 2026.
Related: Kate Middleton Is the Monarchy’s ‘Secret Weapon,’ Says Royal Reporter