FAMILY REUNION

The King and Kate make their Commonwealth Day comeback at Westminster Abbey, where nation states gather for a majestic service

- SUZANNE WINTROB

Flags, culture and expressions of thanksgiving proved to be the perfect pairing for the 76th annual Commonwealth Day service at London’s Westminster Abbey, with King Charles and the Princess of Wales delighted to be back in attendance after missing the moving ceremony last year.

Arriving with her husband, the Prince of Wales, 42, Kate looked beautiful in a scarlet Catherine Walker coat dress – which she first wore to the abbey for her 2021 Christmas carol concert – and a matching Gina Foster pillbox hat atop her long flowing locks.

The mother of three, 43, had bowed out of the high-profile event in 2024 while recovering from what the palace called “planned “abdominal surgery” – a description that led to public speculation about Kate’s health and her subsequent revelation that she had cancer.

ROYAL WELCOME

As head of the Commonwealth, the monarch made a welcome return, too, having been absent last year while also battling cancer (he is still undergoing treatment). His Majesty, 76, looked sharp in a dark suit and silk Hermès Cat and Owl tie, while Queen Camilla, 77, ushered in spring in a blush pink Fiona Clare coat and Philip Treacy hat with sweet petal detailing.