Princess Kate at Trooping the Colour in Light Blue Catherine Walker Gown with Diana Reference

Prince William (43), on the other hand, took part in the ceremonial procession on horseback. Princess Anne (75) and Prince Edward (62), two of the King's siblings, also joined the parade on horseback. Husband Prince William (43), on the other hand, took part in the ceremonial procession on horseback. Prince William is the only one who breaks the pattern: the heir to the throne wore military uniform.

A Dress with History

For the festive occasion, the Princess of Wales chose a light blue dress by Catherine Walker with white piping, which she paired with a striking, large hat by Philip Treacy. At first glance, her ensemble today strongly resembles an outfit worn by Princess Diana in 1992, which also came from the house of Catherine Walker. Diana wore the outfit during a state visit to India. Her accessories are the elegant "Floral Burst" pearl earrings by Cassandra Goad. She has already worn these jewellery pieces earlier this year at the inauguration of the new Archbishop of Canterbury as well as in 2018 at the christening of her youngest son, Prince Louis.

The family colours were also reflected in the children. Prince Louis, who sat next to his mother in the carriage, and Prince George wore light blue ties with their suits. Princess Charlotte also wore a light blue ensemble. Over the years, she has mostly relied on creations by Alexander McQueen and Catherine Walker for this parade, often opting for springlike, light colours. Since her wedding to Prince William in 2011, Kate has not missed a single "Trooping the Colour" celebration. The wife of Prince William (43) took full part in the parade again following her cancer illness.

Regiments, Ritual and Royal History

This time it is the turn of the so-called Grenadier Guards. This job is taken on each year by a different one of the King's five infantry guard regiments. "Colour" refers to the flag that is presented at the parade. More than 1,000 soldiers and military bands are usually part of the spectacle. It is Charles' fourth "Trooping the Colour" as reigning monarch. After many years with Queen Elizabeth II as monarch, Charles took part in the spectacle for the fourth time as King in this year following her death in September 2022. He was already present at the parade for the first time at the age of three. The monarch at the time was still George VI, his grandfather.

Protest, Tradition and Weather Luck

With placards bearing inscriptions such as "Down with the Crown", they made their views known. Anti-monarchy protesters had mingled with the onlookers and vented their displeasure. "We come every year and stand in the same spot," said the Britons Emma McCarthy and Sarah Fuller, who regularly attend the parade. The tradition of the military parade "Trooping the Colour" dates back to the 18th century. This historic location has served as the setting for the celebration of the royal birthday for more than 260 years.

The procession leads the royals from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade. The better prospects of good weather are the reason why the celebration takes place in June. Charles III's actual birthday is in November. At 12 noon local time comes the moment that all onlookers are waiting for: the flypast by the Royal Air Force, which the high-ranking members of the Royal Family will watch from the balcony of Buckingham Palace. To conclude the ceremony, dozens of military aircraft fly over the palace while the royals stand on the balcony waving. This produces a colourful family photo of the royals each year. To conclude, a procession leads back to Buckingham Palace.