The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has been seen wearing the Queen Mary Lover’s Knot Tiara on 15 occasions, significantly more than any of her other tiaras. This particular piece holds deep sentimental value, having been a beloved favourite of her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana.
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First donned by Kate in 2015, the Lover’s Knot Tiara was originally designed for Queen Mary in 1913 and later passed on to Queen Elizabeth II after Mary’s death. Princess Diana frequently showcased this striking headpiece throughout her marriage to King Charles III, often choosing it for formal events such as state banquets.
In contrast to her repeated choice of the Lover’s Knot, Kate has worn other tiaras sparingly during her time as a member of the royal family. The next most frequently worn headpiece is the Lotus Flower Tiara, which she has donned just three times. Other tiaras in her collection, including the Cartier Halo Tiara, the Strathmore Rose Tiara, and Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet Tiara, have each made an appearance only once.
According to former royal butler Grant Harrold, there is not only a personal affinity that drives Kate’s preference for the Lover’s Knot but also a poignant tribute to her late mother-in-law. Harrold remarked on the emotional significance of the tiara, stating that through it, Kate keeps Diana’s memory alive, which undoubtedly resonates with Prince William.
“It’s obvious that the tiara is a favourite of Kate’s; it’s an incredible piece that complements her perfectly,” Harrold commented. He noted that it pairs well with her hairstyles, whether worn up or down. However, he underscored that there is a deeper reason for Kate’s frequent choice, suggesting that her decision reflects a heartfelt homage to Diana.
Harrold further elaborated, “Kate is aware of how much William misses his mother, and I believe she makes a conscious effort to include aspects of Diana in her royal duties.” This connection, he argued, likely brings comfort to him when he sees his wife embracing his mother’s legacy.
The sentiment attached to the Lover’s Knot Tiara is not the only connection linking Kate to Diana. When Prince William proposed in 2010, he presented Kate with his mother’s iconic engagement ring—a gem laden with its own rich history. During their first interview as an engaged couple, William expressed the significance of this gesture, remarking, “I thought it was quite nice because obviously, she’s not going to be around to share any of the fun and excitement of it all—this was my way of keeping her sort of close to it all.”
The choice of the Lover’s Knot Tiara serves to evoke discussions around both royal women’s legacies, reinforcing the bond between Kate and Diana. Harrold noted the similarities between the two, stating, “There are obviously many comparisons between the two royal women, and this is a way Kate can ensure people continue to talk about and remember Diana. I think it’s very clever and special and shows how thoughtful Kate is.”
Beyond the historical and familial implications, Kate’s selection of such an iconic piece of jewellery underscores the continued relevance of royal traditions in modern times. Each public appearance in the tiara not only enhances her image as the Princess of Wales but also unearths the enduring love and respect that she has for her late mother-in-law.
In a world where royal fashion choices can make headlines, Kate Middleton’s affinity for the Lover’s Knot Tiara speaks volumes about her character and her role within the royal family. As she forges her path as a modern royal, the tiara remains a symbol of continuity and remembrance, linking her life to the cherished memories of Princess Diana.