The Princess of Wales is following a planned gradual return to public appearances according to royal commentators
Princess Kate was notably absent from Tuesday’s annual diplomatic reception at Buckingham Palace, where her husband, the Prince of Wales, attended alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Kate, 42, has been a consistent presence at the white-tie event since her debut in 2013, missing it only once in 2014 due to a New York visit.
Last year, she captivated attendees in a shimmering pink Jenny Packham dress paired with the Lover’s Knot tiara.
Her absence comes during a challenging year, following her cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
The princess completed her chemotherapy in September and has since been making a measured return to public duties.
While gradually resuming her royal responsibilities, she is taking a careful approach to her recovery and public appearances.
Currently, the princess is focusing her attention on the upcoming Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey on December 6.
The service carries special significance this year, with its theme reflecting on “how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives”.
The princess will serve as host for the Christmas concert.
Royal biographer Robert Jobson is aware that she should not take on too many engagements upon her staggered return to public duties.
Jobson told Hello: “Kate’s very aware of what the future holds so she’s taking the time to focus on getting fit and strong again while she can and doing it on her terms.”
Royal author Robert Hardman echoed that Kate’s return will be gradual, potentially beginning with office-based early years work in 2025.
He said: “There will be a gradual scaling up of her activities in the new year, perhaps with some office-based engagements relating to her early years work.
“The Palace will be keen to manage expectations. If she did start returning to major social events, that would lead people to think things are back to normal, which isn’t the case.
“So I think there’s no pressure on her to do that.”
