Kate Middleton Returns To Wimbledon In A Custom Royal Purple Safiyaa Gown

Princess Charlotte also joined her mother court side

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 14: Kate Middleton on court to present the trophy to the winner of the men’s final on day fourteen of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 14, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)

Kate Middleton made a surprisingly delightful appearance at Wimbledon on the final day of the tennis tournament. Despite speculation over her attendance amid ongoing health struggles, the Princess of Wales dutifully (and stylishly, might we add) fulfilled her role as Patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club by handing out the gilded trophy to incumbent champion, 21-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz.

During the rare outing, the former Duchess of Cambridge showcased her unwavering allegiance to the crown by opting for a custom Safiyaa gown in royal purple. A pigment long reserved for monarchs and rulers, Middleton’s decision to don the hue was deliberate: With the world’s eyes on her, as she took to centre court, Middleton consciously ensured her family was equally prominent.

The summer dress was a variant of the atelier’s Cecilia style. (Available to order now, if you’re interested in emulating the Princess’ taste for your next outing). The mid-length piece featured an A-line midi shape with a twist bodice and structured sleeves crafted from lilac heavy crepe.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 14: Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte arrive at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon, south west London, on day fourteen of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships on July 14, 2024 in London, England. The Princess of Wales will present the trophy to the winner of the men’s final. (Photo by Aaron Chown – WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Though, it wasn’t the only subtle sartorial reference in the stadium. Indeed, Princess Charlotte, who joined her mother and aunt, Pippa Middleton, courtside in the royal box, wore a frilly polka dot dress similar to the navy and peplum Alessandra Rich style her mother wore during the 2022 championship.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 10: Kate Middleton looks on during the trophy ceremony following the Men’s Singles Final match between Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Nick Kyrgios of Australia on day fourteen of The Championships Wimbledon 2022 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 10, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Similar to her experience at Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert with her father, Prince William, and brother, Prince George, the nine-year-old met the sporting sensations after the game. Quiet the summer for this little Princess.

Earlier in the season, Middleton returned to the public with a quiet attendance at Trooping the Colour, where she joined her family and head of state, King Charles III, for the traditional fly-over celebrations.

Her roadmap to a full recovery was not linear, however, with Middleton announcing she was “not out of the woods” despite having “turned a corner”. At the time, officials announced she “plans to spend time with her children and work from home as she continues with her recovery”.

Of course, her presence at the match can only be taken as a promising sign. Since being appointed as patron by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2016, Middleton has consecutively attended every championship. Her spectatorship is a bedrock of the English game, and if Middleton’s megawatt smile and animated displays are proof, one she’s diligent to uphold.