The Earthshot Prize ceremony was designed to honour the world’s leading innovators in sustainability — yet for a few unforgettable moments, the spotlight shifted entirely to Princess Catherine, who captivated the audience in a striking slit gown paired with Princess Diana’s treasured jewellery.
At 42, the Princess of Wales joined Prince William at the star-filled event, reminding the world why she remains one of the most admired and influential style figures of the modern era. Her appearance blended elegance, legacy, and quiet confidence.
a striking arrival
As Catherine stepped onto the green carpet, camera flashes illuminated her path. She wore a floor-length emerald-green gown with a bold thigh-high slit — a sophisticated and contemporary design that demonstrated both refinement and assuredness. The piece, created by Alexander McQueen, one of her most trusted designers, moved gracefully as she greeted attendees with warmth and poise.
Her look was elevated by Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire-and-diamond earrings, once worn by the late Princess at multiple royal engagements. The sparkling jewels added an emotional dimension to her ensemble, symbolising a bond between two generations of royal women celebrated for their empathy and timeless beauty.
Fashion experts quickly celebrated the outfit, calling it “a masterclass in bridging heritage and modern glamour.” One stylist noted, “Catherine honoured Diana beautifully, yet the look remained distinctly her own — regal, confident, unmistakably Catherine.”
purpose meets glamour
This year’s Earthshot Prize, hosted in Singapore, was created by Prince William in 2020 to recognise groundbreaking environmental solutions. Often described as the “Nobel Prize for the planet,” the event gathers global leaders, activists, innovators, and high-profile guests committed to a sustainable future.
William, dressed in a classic velvet tuxedo, opened the evening with a compelling call for urgent climate action. Catherine, through her presence and interactions, reinforced the message of unity and purpose, showing how style can support substance.
Throughout the event she engaged warmly with nominees, environmental leaders, and young inventors. At one point, she held a lively discussion with students developing renewable energy technologies — an extension of her long-standing advocacy for children, education, and environmental responsibility.
honouring Diana’s memory
The sapphire-and-diamond earrings Catherine selected carried powerful sentimental significance. A cherished piece from Princess Diana’s private collection, they accompanied her on key tours, including her well-known visits to Australia and Canada.
Wearing them at a global event dedicated to change underscored both continuity and tribute.
Royal historian Elaine Parker explained, “Catherine’s choice was symbolic. Diana was known for using her public role to show compassion. Catherine is continuing that legacy in her own distinctive way.”
Social media users echoed the sentiment, with hashtags like #PrincessCatherine and #DianasLegacy trending within moments. One post read, “She’s carrying Diana’s grace into a new era — elegance with intention.”
sustainable elegance
In keeping with the Earthshot vision, Catherine’s outfit incorporated sustainability. The gown was reportedly a reimagined version of an earlier McQueen piece. Her accessories, including her clutch and footwear, featured eco-conscious materials. Even her signature natural makeup look was achieved using cruelty-free brands.
Royal watchers have long noted her commitment to responsible fashion, championing designers who prioritise ethical production and encouraging a “wear and re-wear” mindset that resonates with today’s climate-conscious generation.
Fashion writer Sophie Harper observed, “Catherine demonstrates that environmental responsibility can be seamlessly stylish. Her choices communicate that luxury and sustainability are not opposites.”
social media reaction
The moment she arrived, her images spread across social platforms. Admirers praised her assuredness and refined style.
“That dress is the definition of confident elegance,” one user commented on X.
“Princess Catherine just reset the standard for royal fashion,” another noted.
Leading outlets like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar published instant analyses of her look, while royal followers debated whether this might be her most memorable fashion moment to date.
Even celebrities took notice — Reese Witherspoon reposted a photo of Catherine with the caption: “Now THAT is classic elegance done right.”
a united royal partnership
Although Catherine’s fashion dominated the spotlight, the evening highlighted the couple’s shared mission. William’s passionate speech earned strong applause, and his affectionate looks toward Catherine drew attention from royal observers.
“William and Catherine represent a modern vision of the monarchy,” said royal commentator Richard Palmer. “He leads with strategic direction; she leads with presence and empathy. Together, they reflect balance and purpose.”
Their quiet gestures — holding hands, exchanging smiles — reflected the depth of their partnership.
a defining modern royal
For Princess Catherine, this Earthshot appearance was more than a stylish outing — it reinforced her evolution into a thoughtful and influential global figure.
She has grown from the young bride once casually nicknamed “Waity Katie” into a respected leader championing mental health, early childhood development, and environmental education. Her fashion choices make headlines, but her authenticity and dedication set her apart.
As one admirer wrote online, “She doesn’t just wear a crown — she brings dignity to it.”
a night to remember
When the ceremony concluded and the applause faded, one truth stood out: the 2025 Earthshot Prize will be remembered not only for its environmental impact but also for the moment Princess Catherine illuminated the green carpet — weaving together royal heritage, sustainability, and enduring elegance in a single striking appearance.
Her gown may have captured the spotlight, but it was her presence — composed, purposeful, and deeply human — that reaffirmed why so many regard her as the defining jewel of the contemporary monarchy.