Kate Middleton on her 40th birthday.Photo: Paolo Roversi
Kate Middletonis paying tribute to two of the most iconic royal women in history with hernew birthday portraits.
The Duchess of Cambridge, who celebrates her 40th birthday on January 9, released three glamorous new portraits in honor of the milestone occasion on Saturday. And Kate made sure to include a subtle nod to bothQueen ElizabethandPrincess Diana.
In one glamorous photo of Kate in a red satin one-shoulder gown, the royal wears a glittering pair of diamond earrings that belong to the 95-year-old monarch.
In a second black-and-white image, Kate is seen in a traditional portrait pose that shows off diamond and pearl drop earrings that belonged to her late mother-in-law Princess Diana. The earrings aren’t the only homage to Diana, she also has the royal’s iconic sapphire engagement ring in full view.
Kate, who has worn both earrings on a few other occasions,regularly channels Princess Diana through her royal style. And she often is seen wearing jewelry from the Queen’s collection.
Kate Middleton on her 40th birthday.Paolo Roversi
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Kate is preparing more than ever for her role as future queen consort alongsidePrince William, taking on more royal duties asQueen Elizabethhas canceled engagements due to recent health issues as well asPrince HarryandMeghan Markle’s decision to step back as senior working royals.
The Duchess of Cambridge is “flourishing,” a royal insider told PEOPLE ahead of Kate’s 40th birthday. “She has really come into her own.”
source: people.com
