Kate Middleton steps out of her comfort zone in uber-stylish peplum suit but it's the diamond feather brooch that's really caught our eye

Kate Middleton's peplum suit and significant jewelry choices were the epitome of modern royal elegance as she marked Commonwealth Day

Kate Middleton's peplum suit worn for the 2023 Commonwealth Day Service
(Image credit: Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Kate Middleton’s peplum suit is über stylish and outside her fashion comfort zone but it's her diamond feather brooch that's really caught our eye. 


So many of Kate Middleton’s dresses have become iconic over the years and we have a feeling we’ve just seen the next one to be counted amongst them. Stepping out with Prince William on March 13 the Princess of Wales wowed in navy as she attended the annual Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey. 

It was here that Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding was held back in 2011 but on this day it saw senior royals gather as King Charles delivered his first Commonwealth Day address and marked this important day. For the service, Kate Middleton’s peplum suit pushed her out of her fashion comfort zone and her diamond feather brooch caught our attention. 

Catherine, Princess of Wales attends the 2023 Commonwealth Day Service

(Image credit: Photo by Neil Mockford/GC Images)

The navy suit jacket was paired with what appeared to be a matching calf-length skirt, both featuring delicate white floral motifs all over. The jacket’s single breasted design and classic peaked lapels oozed elegance and the peplum isn’t something fans see often from the Princess of Wales, who usually favors either dresses or streamlined pantsuits. This structural element added a contemporary edge to her otherwise classic outfit. 

Philiya Peplum Waist Suit Jacket |$303/£250 | Ted Baker

Philiya Peplum Waist Suit Jacket |<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1623315&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tedbaker.com%2Fuk%2Fp%2FWomens%2FClothing%2FCoats-and-Jackets%2FPHILIYA-Peplum-Waist-Suit-Jacket-Black%2F268550-BLACK%3Fcmpid%3Dppc~google~PLA~performance_max_uk_high_price~~268550-BLACK-0~na~na~UK%26gclid%3DCj0KCQjwk7ugBhDIARIsAGuvgPb7WgBmlyeeTbUWc5XnA5uekJGs-Qn88u8QbQG-J0RYjyMDPCQaEpYaAotCEALw_wcB%23&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - tedbaker.com"" target="_blank">$303/£250 | Ted Baker

With a pleated design similar to Kate Middleton’s peplum suit jacket, this elegant outerwear option creates a structured silhouette. Make a statement with this wearable piece that’s a little more understated than the Princess’ but every bit as beautiful, with its peaked lapel detail and versatile color.  

Her matching navy hat was secured over her elegant chignon hairstyle and keeping her long locks secure also helped to accentuate her jewelry. As we saw in Boston last year, the future Queen Consort is a fan of the sapphire and diamond drop earrings that match her dazzling engagement ring. Worn again for Commonwealth Day the color was the ideal choice to bring out the deep blue of her clothing. 

Catherine, Princess of Wales smiles as she attends the 2023 Commonwealth Day Service

(Image credit: Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

However, the feather brooch pinned neatly to her peplum jacket also looked familiar. Featuring three feathers in a circular design and looking to consist of diamonds, this brooch appears to be the emblem of the Prince of Wales. Kate Middleton’s Prince of Wales feathers brooch with emeralds was worn last year.

The Princess wore it with her vibrant Emilia Wickstead dress when she and Prince William welcomed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to the UK. The difference lies in the lack of emerald drop that was attached to the brooch for that particular visit, but wasn’t on the brooch worn for Commonwealth Day.

Catherine, Princess of Wales smiles as she departs the 2023 Commonwealth Day Service

(Image credit: Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

That brooch is also said to have tiny emeralds set in it which aren't visible in photographs from Commonwealth Day. It seems like this could either be a different brooch with a similar design or the same one altered, but the significance remains. Kate took on her title as Princess of Wales last year and the Prince of Wales emblem consists of three ostrich feathers rising through a coronet.

Catherine, Princess of Wales attends the Ceremonial Welcome at Horse Guards Parade for President Cyril Ramaphosa

(Image credit: Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

The Princess is set to wear a coronet herself in a few months’ time when King Charles’ coronation day arrives. She and Prince William are expected to be at the coronation, with at least some of their children possibly attending too. 

Whilst Kate Middleton’s peplum suit might be replaced with an elaborate dress or gown for the coronation it’s possible the Prince of Wales feather brooch could make a reappearance on the day or going forwards. 

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!