Queen Camilla Makes a Surprise Nod to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle During Canada Visit

Queen Camilla accompanied King Charles to Canada on May 26 for his throne speech to the parliament. While much of the spotlight was on Charles’ anticipated address, what caught the eye of royal fans was Camilla’s outfit on arrival at Ottawa.

As reported by Vanity Fair, Camilla stepped off the plane in an elegant coat dress by Anna Valentine. As the pale pink outfit was familiar, one she famously wore to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal wedding in 2018, fans were convinced it was a subtle nod to the Sussexes, who recently celebrated their 7th anniversary on May 19. Camilla paired the ensemble with a plush brown clutch purse. She also wore a brooch, diamond earrings, and a golden pendant engraved with the initials of her grandchildren. Camilla completed her look with a pair of luxurious Chanel shoes.

Camilla’s thoughtful outfit also honored the late Queen Elizabeth II. Another standout detail from her ensemble was her maple leaf brooch — a nod to Canada’s national symbol. The historic brooch was gifted by King George VI to his wife, Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother), to commemorate her first 1939 royal tour of Canada. The Queen Mother passed on the historic heirloom to her eldest daughter, Queen Elizabeth II. For her part, the late Queen wore the brooch for her first trip to Canada as Princess in 1951. Additionally, she also wore it for a visit to Canada House for the 150th anniversary of Canadian Confederation, on her Sapphire Jubilee.

Jewelry expert James Harris explained the importance of Camilla wearing the iconic brooch in the monarchy. He told GB News, “If Queen Camilla chooses to wear a piece from the extensive collection of the late Queen, it could be seen as a wonderful symbol of carrying on Queen Elizabeth's deep commitment and dedication to the Commonwealth, which was well documented in her lifetime.” He added, “Wearing a piece of jewelry as remembrance is a meaningful way to keep loved ones close and honor their memory.” Harris cited that the stunning Diamond Maple-Leaf Brooch was made by Asprey & Co. in the late 1930s.

The Queen Consort isn’t the only royal who allegedly made a quiet nod to Harry and Markle’s 7th anniversary. As per People magazine, at a Buckingham Palace garden party on May 20, Kate Middleton drew attention for rewearing the same yellow hat she wore for the Sussexes' wedding. However, the Princess of Wales has repeated the floral headpiece before. She has worn the same bright yellow Philip Treacy hat for Trooping the Color in June 2019. As per reports, her hat choice was an ‘olive branch’ to Harry and Markle amidst their highly publicized rift.