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Woman & Home
Woman & Home
Lifestyle
Emma Shacklock

I've just noticed Kate Middleton's subtle nod to her family at the Cancer Research reception - it's not just her red dress which sent a message

Catherine, Princess of Wales attends a reception at St James's Palace in London, on June 2, 2026.

The Princess of Wales is an expert at using clothing to tell a story and whilst the message can often be obvious, there are often subtle layers that go under the radar. On 2nd June she attended a reception celebrating the 125th anniversary of Cancer Research UK wearing a strawberry-red dress covered in polka dots and tiny hearts.

The colour and pattern are strongly associated with love and compassion, so Kate's outfit spoke volumes the moment she stepped into the room. This Rodarte frock also had a removeable silk flower on the lapel.

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