Prince William's subtle tribute to Diana during royal event: 'So lovely'

The royal held his mother's memory close to his heart.

Prince William has surprised royal fans with a touching tribute to his late mother Princess Diana during a garden party. The Prince and Princess of Wales were all smiles as they stepped out to host the event held at Buckingham Palace.

Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie were also in attendance for the event held to celebrate public service, along with invited guests from all walks of life in the UK.

Prince William and Princess Kate at a garden party
Prince William included a nod to his mother in his outfit. Photo: Getty

The couple looked smart in their colour-coordinated outfits, with Princess Kate recycling a baby blue Ellie Saab outfit worn to Royal Ascot in 2019. However, there was one detail in William’s outfit that stole the show.

In a rare show of affection, the royal pinned forget-me-not flowers to his jacket lapel. The whimsical blooms are known as one of his mother’s favourite flowers, with her brother confirming her love for the plant after her death.

“Earl Spencer, Princess Diana’s brother, gave me some forget-me-nots to her when they were younger. They stayed with her as one of her favourite flowers,” Kensington Palace’s head gardener Sean Harkin told Vogue in 2017.

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A monument dedicated to her memory at Althorp House also incorporates the floral motif. A plaque by the Round Oval lake shows Princess Diana along with forget-me-nots and roses.

Prince William, Princess Kate, Duchess Sophie and Prince Edward attend a garden party
The Prince and Princess of Wales were joined by Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie. Photo: Getty

Royal fans took to social media to praise William’s emotional move, with one calling it a “tender gesture”.

“I think he’s hinting at something we know. She will always be in his heart,” another wrote.

“Diana would be so proud of the man that William has become!” a third added.

“It’s such a lovely tribute by Prince William,” another remarked.

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Prince William greets a royal fan during a garden party
William was seen chatting with guests during the event. Photo: Getty

Others also commented on how sophisticated the couple looked during the event.

“I love the traditions in England. A garden party, so lovely. The ladies and gents all look so elegant and classy,” one commented.

“I so love her dress! Loved it the first time she wore it. I love that she wears things more than once,” another gushed.

“She looked gorgeous in that beautiful dress and hat! Prince William was stunning with his top hat! Love them,” a third remarked.

“The Prince and Princess of Wales are such a wonderful caring couple,” another added.

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