Queen Camilla Radiates Elegance in Aquamarine Coat at Commonwealth Day Service
Westminster Abbey, London – In a display of regal composure, Queen Camilla took center stage leading the royal family at the annual Commonwealth Day Service in Westminster Abbey. This celebration, observed globally by Commonwealth nations across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Americas, the Pacific, and Europe, is a customary fixture in the royal calendar. Notably, absent this year were the Princess of Wales and King Charles, both recovering from health issues at home.
Undeterred, Queen Camilla, accompanied by the Prince of Wales, made a striking entrance. Her choice of an aquamarine coat paired with a heart-shaped gemstone brooch showcased her signature style, complemented by her trademark bouncy blow-dry hairstyle.
The event, known for its historical significance, marked the last formal engagement attended by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex before their departure as working royals in March 2020. As the Queen arrived at Westminster Abbey, she engaged with the Dean of Westminster, while the all-female Indian Dhol drummers, Eternal Taal, set the stage at the Great West Door.
The service commenced with a procession of flags representing Commonwealth member states, including Uganda (Africa), Calum Scott, and Jacob Portelli (Europe), Pianist Spencer Klymyshyn (the Americas), and Isabella Moore and Benson Wilson (Pacific). Samoa, set to host CHOGM in 2024, represented the incoming Commonwealth Chair-in-Office.
The program featured diverse reflections, including a contribution from Earthshot Prize-winner Notpla, specializing in plastic alternatives, and a specially commissioned poem by Sir Ben Okri OBE for the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth.
In a pre-recorded video message, King Charles paid tribute to the Commonwealth’s significance, emphasizing its role as a ‘unique family of free and independent nations.’ Addressing challenges like climate change and social issues, he highlighted the Commonwealth’s strength in diversity, urging collaboration to address global challenges. The King expressed gratitude for the well-wishes amid his health battle, affirming his commitment to serving the Commonwealth.
Among the 2,000-strong congregation were distinguished guests, including Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland, the President of Malta, Foreign Ministers, High Commissioners, politicians, faith leaders, and young representatives from across the Commonwealth and the UK. The day celebrated unity, resilience, and shared ambitions for a better future within the Commonwealth family.