Kate Middleton’s style streak of royal red outfits could be coming to an end, as the Palace has confirmed the Princess of Wales will be leaning into the luck of the Irish for her next appearance on Monday, March 17. As Prince William jet-sets on his first official overseas trip of the year on March 20, Kate will be holding up the fort at home by taking part in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Central London.
It’s a special solo appearance for Kate, as the princess was named the Colonel of the Irish Guards in March 2023. She took the torch from the previous patron Prince William, who had served in the position since 2011. The regiment, which was first formed by Queen Victoria to commemorate Irish soldiers who fought on behalf of the British empire in the second Boer War, will be celebrated at Wellington Barracks this year.
Back in 2023, William was by Kate’s side as she wore a teal skirt suit while taking part in her colonel duties for the first time. Her responsibilities included handing shamrocks to soldiers as well as the regiment’s adorable mascot, an Irish Wolf Hound, the awarding of medals, and an official salute. Kate–who’s been a regular at the annual parade for years–has also enjoyed mingling with soldiers and their families, as well as enjoying a customary pint of Guinness.
While the princess missed last year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration due to her cancer battle, she was there in spirit as she reportedly spent over $2,000 on drinks for the Irish Guard, or about 700 pints of Guinness. She also made up her absence at the annual Colonel’s Review, which traditionally happens the weekend before Trooping the Colour, as the Irish Guards shared a sweet apology note that “Colonel Catherine” sent them on social media. A week later, the princess made a surprise appearance at the Trooping the Colour, where she proudly watched the Irish Guards lead the parade during the monarchy’s birthday celebration.
With Kate making a triumphant solo return at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, all eyes will be on the princess (and her green-hued outfit of choice) as she celebrates alongside her regiment.
