Kate Middleton Returns to the Spotlight in a Sleek Black Coat Dress

Middleton arrived at the event alongside several other members of the British royal family, including Prince William and King Charles, as well as Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his wife, Victoria Starmer. Queen Camilla was unable to attend, however, following her diagnosis with a chest infection earlier this week. “While this is a source of great disappointment to the queen, she will mark the occasion privately at home and hopes to return to public duties early next week,” a statement from Buckingham Palace read.

For the event, the Princess of Wales leaned into the grounded style she’s been channeling since announcing her recovery from cancer. To share the news back in September, she released an emotional video with her family wearing a boho, bell-sleeved Veronica Beard dress that telegraphed ease and comfort, while for her appearance in Stockport, she wore a longline coat with a maroon polka-dot blouse that was both elegant and appropriate for the gravity of the event.

And while tonight’s event had a similarly weighty significance, it was clear that Middleton hasn’t lost her love of fashion—even after a remarkably turbulent year.