The Princess and Prince of Wales made a striking appearance at the Order of the Garter Service held at Windsor Castle, shortly after the weekend's Trooping the Colour. Kate Middleton captivated onlookers in an elegant white Alessandra Rich dress adorned with black polka dots, complemented by a stylish Philip Treacy hat. Prince William, soon to celebrate his 41st birthday, participated in the procession for the first time as heir to the throne, donning the customary hat with ostrich plumes. This marked his first time wearing the full Order of the Garter regalia since King Charles' coronation in May, although he has been a regular attendee of the ceremony alongside his wife for many years.

The Prince of Wales initially received his Order of the Garter knighthood in 2008, the same year Kate Middleton first accompanied him to the event, three years prior to their marriage. This early attendance signaled her acceptance into the royal fold, culminating in Prince William's proposal two years later with his late mother Princess Diana's ring.

King Charles III, accompanied by Queen Camilla, led the procession for the first time as reigning monarch. The event was marked by a soldier fainting due to the intense heatwave gripping England, with temperatures soaring to approximately 86 degrees Fahrenheit. This incident followed a similar occurrence the previous week where several soldiers fainted during the Trooping the Colour rehearsal.

The Order of the Garter, Britain's oldest and most prestigious order of chivalry, traces its origins back to King Edward III in the 14th century. Inspired by Arthurian legends, the Order recognizes individuals who have served the nation or the Sovereign with distinction. Membership includes both men and women from various backgrounds, including public figures and those personally selected by the monarch.

Other royal members of the Order include Princess Anne, Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, the Duke of Gloucester, and Princess Alexandra. Prince Harry is not a member, while Prince Andrew, though a member, has been absent from royal duties since 2019. Prince Harry was also notably absent from Trooping the Colour. Reports suggest he and Meghan Markle were not invited, despite Harry's recent presence in the UK for his legal proceedings against the Daily Mirror's publisher.