Just days after attending the 125th anniversary of Cancer Research UK with King Charles, the Princess of Wales has taken part in another emotional engagement to visit The Christie in Manchester.
Established in 1890 before becoming part of the NHS in 1948, The Christie is the largest cancer centre in Europe, providing treatment to over 60,000 patients.
During her visit, Kate watched on as one patient 'rang the bell' to signal the end of their treatment. She also visited an art therapy room and a wellbeing garden before concluding her trip at the Teenage and Young Adult Ward.
Showing her solidarity with the NHS, which has a blue and white colour palette, the Princess recycled one of her favourite blue coat dresses from Eponine. Features included padded shoulders, a V-neck, a buttoned waist and a midi skirt.
Adding simple accessories, Prince William's wife wore her sapphire engagement ring, bee earrings and nude Gianvito Rossi heels. Her iconic brunette hair was styled in glamorous Hollywood curls that cascaded past her shoulders.
Colour meaning
© Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceAccording to royal fashion expert and style coach Shauna Colaci, there could be more hidden messages behind Kate's chosen colour on Thursday.
"In colour psychology, blue symbolises trust, loyalty, and calm authority. It’s the colour of diplomacy - quietly powerful, universally flattering, and emotionally steadying," she said.
Showcasing her sustainable fashion credentials, Kate chose to recycle an item that had been in her wardrobe since 2021. The mother-of-three first debuted the coat from the brand's Spring/Summer 2020 collection during the United Nations COP26 summit on climate change.
© Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceHer thrifty approach to fashion has not gone unnoticed by stylist Susie Hasler, who previously told Best Quality Designer Handbag that the royal cleverly gives her outfits a fresh look with different accessories
"When she chooses something custom-made, it's often in a neutral shade - usually something like blue or navy - which makes it much easier to re-wear in different ways over time. These types of pieces are always created with longevity in mind," she explained.
Cancer journey
Kate was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer following an abdominal surgery in 2024, and she underwent chemotherapy, which was completed by September of that year.
At the time, the royal announced that she was "cancer-free", before stating that she was in remission in January 2025.
During a visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital, where she was treated, she empathised with cancer patients following her own first-hand experiences. Speaking to one woman who was having chemotherapy, Kate said: "It's really tough," and urged her to keep a positive mindset.
Hours later, she shared a statement that read: "My heartfelt thanks goes to all those who have quietly walked alongside William and me as we have navigated everything. We couldn’t have asked for more. The care and advice we have received throughout my time as a patient has been exceptional."
