7 ways Kate Middleton follows in Princess Diana's footsteps: From fashion choices to parenting style

7 ways Kate Middleton keeps Princess Diana's memory alive

The late Princess Diana left an indelible mark on the world with her charitable work, compassionate nature, and unique approach to royal duties. Decades after her tragic death, her memory continues to be celebrated and preserved by her family, particularly by her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, as highlighted by royal expert Jennie Bond. Here are seven ways the Princess of Wales keeps Princess Diana's spirit alive. 

1. Wearing Princess Diana's iconic engagement ring

When Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in October 2010 during a trip to Kenya, he did so with a deeply sentimental gesture by presenting her with Princess Diana's famous 12-carat sapphire engagement ring. Speaking to ITV at the time, William said, "It's my mother's engagement ring and it's very special to me, as Kate is very special to me now as well. It was my way of making sure mother didn't miss out on today and the excitement and the fact that we're going to spend the rest of our lives together."

2. Emulating Princess Diana's parenting style

Both William and Kate have adopted a hands-on and compassionate approach to raising their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—much like Diana did with William and Harry. Jennie Bond notes, "There are lots of similarities in the way that William and Catherine are bringing up their kids, similar to how Diana broke the mould." Diana was known for balancing "play days and work days," allowing her sons to experience normal childhood activities while understanding their royal responsibilities. Similarly, the Waleses prioritize giving their children a balanced upbringing filled with love, fun, and a sense of normalcy.

3. Upholding the 'golden rule' of kindness

Kindness is a cornerstone in both Diana's and Kate's approach to parenting. According to a royal correspondent from HELLO! Online, both women are affectionate and nurturing with their children, often seen holding hands, giving cuddles, and offering comforting gestures. Kate, like Diana, engages with children at their level during public engagements by crouching down to talk to them, demonstrating empathy and approachability.

4. Paying tribute through fashion

Kate Middleton often honors her late mother-in-law by drawing inspiration from her iconic fashion choices. Notably, when presenting Prince Louis to the world outside the Lindo Wing in 2018, Kate wore a red Jenny Packham dress similar to the one worn by Diana after Harry's birth in 1984. Additionally, Kate has been seen wearing polka-dot dresses reminiscent of Diana's style, and she frequently dons jewelry pieces that once belonged to Diana, keeping her memory alive through elegant sartorial nods.

5. Involving Princess Diana in milestone events

William and Kate ensure that their children are aware of and connected to their late grandmother. On Mother's Day in 2021, heartfelt cards from Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis to "Granny Diana" were shared publicly. Prince George wrote, "I love you very much and think of you always," while Charlotte mentioned, "Papa is missing you. Lots of love Charlotte." These touching gestures demonstrate the family's efforts to involve Diana during significant moments in their lives. 

6. Paying homage through family portraits

In December 2023, the Waleses released a family Christmas card featuring a black-and-white portrait in which the parents and the children wore matching white button-down shirts and dark trousers. Royal observers, including royal fan Amanda Matta (@matta_of_fact), noted the resemblance to a 1990s photoshoot of Princess Diana with her husband and sons, highlighting her enduring influence on the family's public image and personal expressions.

7. Embracing the title of Princess of Wales

After Queen Elizabeth II's death, King Charles III bestowed the title of "Princess of Wales" upon Kate Middleton. Recognizing the profound association of this title with her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, Kate reportedly thought "long and hard" before accepting it. Royal biographer Robert Jobson wrote that Kate was aware she would be compared to Diana but understood the importance of carrying on her legacy. Jennie Bond commented, "We talk about the Princess of Wales, and that was a title that was a very difficult one for Camilla to even consider taking on. But Catherine has embraced it and continues to honor Diana's memory through her work and dedication."