Princess Kate paid a subtle tribute to Holocaust victims through her choice of jewelry during a VE Day concert on Thursday, May 8. She and Prince William made a surprise appearance alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla at the event, which marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day—the end of World War II in Europe.
The concert featured wartime music and stories from veterans. It was a last-minute addition to the royal couple’s schedule. Earlier in the day, they joined the Royal Family for a service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey.
Known for her thoughtful fashion choices, Princess Kate once again used her outfit to send a message. She wore a white blazer dress by Self-Portrait, paired with a five-strand pearl necklace that holds deep meaning. The same necklace was first seen on her during a Holocaust Memorial Day event in January.
The necklace, valued at £275, was designed by Jewish designer Susan Caplan. It is made from vintage faux pearls. After Kate wore the piece in January, Caplan posted on Instagram, saying, “Today marks 80 years since the Holocaust, and as a Jewish-owned brand we are honoured that the Princess of Wales chose to wear our necklace for today’s memorial.”
Pearls have long symbolized mourning and remembrance. Members of the Royal Family often wear them to funerals and memorial services. Princess Kate, for instance, wore Queen Elizabeth’s Japanese Pearl Choker and Bahrain Pearl Drop Earrings to the late monarch’s funeral in 2022.
For the VE Day concert, Kate also wore vintage pearl cluster earrings by Susan Caplan. She had previously worn them at a 2021 reception at Buckingham Palace and at the Platinum Party at the Palace in 2022. Her hair was styled in soft curls, pulled back with a black velvet bow.
Earlier in the day, Kate attended the service at Westminster Abbey in a white polka dot dress by Alessandra Rich. She had first worn the dress on Garter Day in 2023. She completed the outfit with a black veiled hat and a tan handbag from Demellier London.
Earlier in the week, on Monday, the Princess of Wales wore a berry-colored vintage-style coat dress to a military parade and flypast for VE Day. She attended the event with Prince William and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
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