The Princess of Wales turned heads on December 16, 2025, as she arrived at Buckingham Palace for King Charles III’s annual pre-Christmas lunch, marking a joyful return to the tradition after missing the previous year’s event. Accompanied by Prince William and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—Kate Middleton opted for a festive ensemble that blended recycled favorites with eye-catching accessories.

The standout piece was a pair of dangling Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra earrings featuring mother-of-pearl motifs set in yellow gold. Valued at around £6,300, the earrings have been worn by the Princess on only three occasions prior, including the BAFTA Awards in 2020 and a reception in the Bahamas in 2022. Fashion observers noted the clover-shaped designs added a subtle touch of luck and elegance to her look, complementing the holiday spirit.

She paired the jewelry with a red Alessandra Rich dress previously seen in 2019 during a Christmas television special with Mary Berry. The garment features a playful pattern of hearts, polka dots, and a pussy-bow detail, creating a cheerful yet sophisticated silhouette. A black velvet hair bow from Miu Miu completed the outfit, adding a modern flair.

The family was photographed arriving in their car, with Prince William driving and the children in the back, joined by their nanny Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo. Princess Charlotte coordinated with her mother in a red velvet dress and matching hair bow, highlighting their close bond.

King Charles hosted the private luncheon at Buckingham Palace, continuing a longstanding tradition that gathers extended family members before the core group heads to Sandringham for Christmas. Attendees included Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, Princess Anne, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and others from the wider royal circle.

This year’s event held special significance following health challenges in the family. The Princess completed preventive treatment earlier in 2025 and has gradually resumed duties, including hosting her annual Together at Christmas carol service. Her presence at the lunch signaled a positive step forward.

Photographers captured the arrivals as vehicles entered the palace grounds, offering glimpses of the royals in festive attire. Eugenie sported candy cane-shaped earrings, adding to the seasonal theme.

The Van Cleef & Arpels pieces drew particular attention, as the brand is favored by several royals, including Queen Camilla. The Magic Alhambra collection, inspired by clover leaves symbolizing luck, features asymmetrical designs that have become iconic.

Kate’s choice to rewear both the dress and earrings aligned with her commitment to sustainable fashion, a focus she has championed in recent years. The 2019 Alessandra Rich design remains a favorite for holiday occasions.

Family dynamics were on display as the Waleses smiled and waved en route. Prince George, in a navy suit, and Prince Louis added to the cheerful scene, while Charlotte’s front-seat position in one photo delighted observers.

The lunch itself remains private, with no official images released from inside. It typically involves multiple tables accommodating around 70 guests, allowing relatives who do not join the Sandringham celebrations to connect.

Following the gathering, the royal family prepares for Christmas at Sandringham, including the traditional church walk on December 25.

Media coverage highlighted the Princess’s radiant appearance, with outlets praising her elegant recycling of wardrobe staples elevated by statement jewelry.

The earrings’ rare outings make each wearing noteworthy. Their debut at the 2020 BAFTAs paired with a gold Alexander McQueen gown showcased versatility.

High street alternatives quickly surfaced online, with retailers offering similar clover designs starting at £17, allowing fans to emulate the look affordably.

The event underscored the monarchy’s holiday traditions amid a year of transitions. King Charles has maintained many customs while adapting others.

Princess Charlotte’s matching red outfit sparked comments on mother-daughter coordination, a recurring theme in their public appearances.

Prince William’s role driving the family emphasized everyday moments amid royal duties.

The black hair bow added a youthful touch, blending classic style with contemporary trends.

Van Cleef & Arpels’ enduring appeal among royals traces back decades, with pieces symbolizing timeless luxury.

The Princess’s jewelry collection includes borrowed and personal items, with these earrings among her prized possessions.

Coverage extended to other attendees, noting festive elements like Eugenie’s thematic accessories.

The return to Buckingham Palace for the lunch revived a pre-pandemic format.

Observers appreciated the family’s unified presence after a challenging period.

The red dress’s pattern brought whimsy to the formal occasion.

Sustainable choices continue to influence royal fashion narratives.

The lunch serves as a prelude to more public holiday engagements.

Media outlets dissected every detail from arrival photos.

The earrings’ mother-of-pearl glowed against the red backdrop.

Fans expressed delight at the rare jewelry sighting.

The ensemble balanced tradition and personal style.

Holiday gatherings highlight intergenerational connections.

The Wales children’s growing confidence in public settings was evident.

Preparations for Sandringham include final touches to celebrations.

The event reinforced family bonds ahead of the new year.

Coverage reflected positive sentiment toward the royals’ holiday spirit.

The Princess’s look set trends for seasonal elegance.

Van Cleef & Arpels remains a go-to for special occasions.

The lunch tradition dates back to Queen Elizabeth II’s reign.

Attendees represented various branches of the family.

The private nature preserves intimacy amid public interest.

Photos provided rare glimpses into the festive day.

The Princess’s health journey added context to her appearance.

Joyful expressions conveyed holiday cheer.

The ensemble exemplified polished yet approachable style.

Earrings elevated a familiar dress to new heights.

Coordination with Charlotte delighted royal watchers.

The event marked a milestone in the festive calendar.

Media praised the thoughtful accessory choices.

The clover motifs symbolized good fortune for the season.

Sustainable fashion messages resonated widely.

The family’s arrival generated widespread coverage.

Holiday traditions continue to evolve under King Charles.

The lunch bridged generations of royals.

Positive reactions dominated social media discussions.

The Princess’s poise remained a focal point.

Jewelry details sparked interest in brand history.

The red theme unified mother and daughter.

Event underscored resilience and togetherness.

Coverage extended to broader royal holiday plans.

The earrings’ history added layers to the story.

Fans anticipated more festive appearances.

The gathering concluded on a high note.

Royal style influences persisted through the season.

The Princess led by example in wardrobe recycling.

Event highlighted cherished annual customs.

Media outlets competed for best arrival shots.

The look blended nostalgia with fresh appeal.

Van Cleef & Arpels pieces hold sentimental value.

The family’s participation warmed hearts.

Holiday spirit shone through every detail.

The lunch paved the way for Christmas proper.

Observers noted the earrings’ perfect pairing.

Sustainable choices earned admiration.

The ensemble captured seasonal elegance.

Royal watchers dissected coordination elements.

The event reinforced unity.

Positive coverage dominated headlines.

The Princess’s return delighted followers.

Jewelry choice sparked duplication trends.

The red dress proved timeless.

Family moments took center stage.

The gathering embodied tradition.

Media reflected on meaningful accessories.

The look inspired holiday outfits.

Van Cleef & Arpels gained renewed attention.

The Princess’s style evolution continued.

Event marked joyful progression.

Coverage celebrated royal festivities.

The earrings symbolized enduring glamour.

Sustainable efforts highlighted consciously.

The family appeared relaxed and happy.

Holiday traditions endured beautifully.

The lunch set a festive tone.

Media praised thoughtful selections.

The ensemble balanced glamour and practicality.

Royal fashion narratives thrived.

The event concluded successfully.