Ageist Reactions to Princess Kate’s Photos Represent a New Level of Appearance Scrutiny
Concerns were raised among royal watchers as Kate Middleton’s appearance during The National Service of Remembrance on Sunday, November 12, sparked discussions about her looking “older,” particularly when standing next to Queen Camilla.
The event brought together royal family members, politicians, and veterans to honor those who suffered or perished during wartime. Kate, the 41-year-old mother of three, presented a somber image in an all-black Alexander McQueen military-inspired coat adorned with three red poppies.
Additionally, she wore a silver brooch received when she assumed the role of Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm earlier this year. Completing her ensemble, she styled her hair in an elegant updo and sported a sizable Philip Treacy hat adorned with a velvet bow.
Throughout the service, the Princess of Wales maintained a dignified demeanor, occasionally breaking into a smile during conversations with Queen Camilla. Notably, she appeared to hold back tears while observing the proceedings below, where Prince William, King Charles III, Prince Edward, and Princess Anne laid wreaths at the Cenotaph war memorial in London.
The juxtaposition of Kate’s appearance and emotions during the ceremony ignited discussions among royal enthusiasts, emphasizing the nuanced scrutiny that public figures, particularly those in the royal family, face in the public eye.
Since then, images from Remembrance Sunday have been circulated online, and followers of the royal family have commented on Kate Middleton’s look on X, previously on Twitter. Some people praised her and Queen Camilla for their refined appearances.
“The royal ladies always look sophisticated and elegant,” exclaimed one, and “Beautiful Princess Catherine, the one and only!” added another.
Another remarked, “Lovely pic of two strong classy women who truly belong on that balcony.” A further addition: “Princess Catherine is wearing the late Queen’s poppy that’s an honor and she looks queenly.”
Meanwhile, there were those who said Kate Middleton has aged and that the strain is showing on her face. One even suggested that she should leave the institution because she is “aging terribly”.
“I don’t think she’s happy. Girl your happiness is more important than this- Diana left and made a greater impact on the world. You are more than they let you think you are. You can make it. Believe in yourself!” one tweeted.
Another shared a comparison photo from a previous appearance at Remembrance Sunday to show how she has aged over the years. One even claimed that the Princes of Wales “looks as old as (Queen) Camilla”.
Another commented: “Katie looks so terribly sad…worn out from all that hard work she does…Her house staff needs to give her more breaks.”
A second wrote: “Look at those sad eyes and mouth. a very unhappy woman” and a third claimed: “Hate really ages one”.
“Look at the state of her,” one more commented, and another chimed in: “She is looking worse for wear.”
“She’s aging fast. Her and William look like 50-year-olds,” another claimed.
The National Service of Remembrance commenced with a solemn two-minute silence observed nationwide at 11:00 a.m. King Charles III then led the nation at the Whitehall memorial, marking the conclusion of the First World War and commemorating other conflicts involving the Commonwealth and British forces.
In a poignant gesture, His Majesty laid a wreath bearing resemblance to the one crafted for King George VI. This wreath featured 41 open-style poppy petals made from bonded fabric, mounted on a composition of black leaves. Major Ollie Plunket followed suit by laying a wreath for Queen Camilla, mirroring the design produced for the Queen Mother.
Distinguished political figures partaking in the wreath-laying ceremony included U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, James Cleverly, Sir Keir Starmer, Suella Braverman, and Sir Ed Davey. The assembly also saw the presence of former prime ministers Liz Truss, Boris Johnson, David Cameron, Gordon Brown, Theresa May, Sir Tony Blair, and Sir John Major.
A day prior to Remembrance Sunday, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Kate Middleton attended the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at Royal Albert Hall, marking a poignant prelude to the solemn observances honoring the sacrifices made in times of conflict.