As tributes poured in for the 80th anniversary of VE Day, all eyes turned to Westminster Abbey — not just for the historic service, but for the Princess of Wales, whose presence subtly echoed the past while marking the present.

Princess Catherine made a notable appearance at the Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey in London on May 8, 2025. She attended the solemn ceremony wearing a white dress adorned with small black polka dots, sparking a buzz.

The long-sleeved dress featured a high neck and structured shoulders. It also had a cinched waist that accentuated her silhouette. The design echoed styles from the 1940s, aligning with the historical tone of the commemoration.

She completed her outfit with a small brown clutch and a black pillbox hat. The hat included a netted veil and floral embellishment, adding a formal and vintage touch.

Her jewelry included drop earrings with teardrop-shaped pearls set in silver. The earrings were reminiscent of accessories once worn by Princess Diana. The styling has led some observers to interpret it as a subtle tribute to her late mother-in-law.

People online responded to Princess Catherine’s look with admiration and praise. One person wrote, “She’s just such an elegant and dignified public figure isn’t she. Flawless.”

Another said, “Stunning, the epitome of elegance!” A netizen posted, “Flawless. #PrincessofWales is the epitome of grace, class and elegance.”

Another person commented, “This future Queen didn’t come to play – she came to SLAY all the dragons.” Yet another commenter added, “Always love it when she gives a nod to Princess Diana and she always does it so respectfully too.”

One more comment read, “She, hands down, when her time comes, will be such an elegant Queen. She is such an icon lady, the LQ was so proud of her as her family is. The beauty of this magnificent lady, she has kept both families totally together and not separated or isolated. Impecable lady [sic].”

Her appearance also drew attention on Instagram, with similar sentiments expressed. “She always picks outfits that have a connection. I thought this not only is a beautiful dress but has a 1940s spin on it as a nod to the era. Beautiful [sic],” wrote one viewer.

“Graceful and poised while maintaining an incredible dignified silence. Plus it helps that she is gorgeous with a supermodel’s figure. Her and her husband are true royals [sic],” remarked another admirer.

The Service of Thanksgiving was part of a broader week-long schedule honoring the 80th anniversary of VE Day — the historic moment marking the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Their Majesties The King and Queen, joined by other members of the Royal Family, are participating in a series of national events to commemorate this milestone.

The commemorations began on Sunday, May 4, with events in Denmark marking the country’s Liberation. On Monday, May 5, the King and Queen, along with Royal Family members and the Prime Minister, joined Second World War veterans for a military procession down The Mall to the Palace.

In a moment echoing history, Their Majesties and other royals appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace — a tradition first observed by King George VI and his family 80 years earlier.

Later that day, the King and Queen hosted a Tea Party at Buckingham Palace for veterans and others from the wartime generation. The tributes continued on Tuesday, May 6, when the Queen visited a new ceramic poppy display at the Tower of London.

On Thursday, May 8 — VE Day itself — the Royal Family gathered at Westminster Abbey for the Service of Thanksgiving. The national commemorations will conclude with a live celebratory concert at Horse Guards Parade, which Their Majesties are scheduled to attend.

Additional events are set to take place in the Channel Islands on May 9 and 10, where the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence will mark the anniversary of the Liberation of Guernsey and Sark.

Princess Catherine’s ensemble and presence at the VE Day anniversary celebration highlighted her consistent role in public life. Through a carefully chosen outfit that reflected both personal style and historical context, she once again captured the attention of the public.

Though Princess Catherine is no stranger to the spotlight, it was her children who ignited online chatter earlier in the week, making a rare appearance alongside their parents on May 5.

Princess Charlotte, Prince George, and Prince Louis joined other royals at the 80th anniversary commemoration of VE Day, drawing attention not just for the solemn occasion, but also for the expressions seen on the younger royals’ faces.

Observers were quick to point out the solemn or subdued expressions on the young royals during the ceremony.

While it is not uncommon for children to appear reserved during formal public duties, especially at serious historical events, public reactions were mixed. One person commented, “Them kids always look sad [sic].” Another noted, “The family looks uncomfortable.”

Comments continued, with one remarking, “They don’t look so happy…” while another questioned, “Why do the kids look mad or sad here! [sic] Strange.” Another netizen added, “Poor kid looks bored to tears.”

A more blunt observation stated, “That’s an angry looking [sic] group of youngsters.” Meanwhile, one person shared, “The royal’s [sic] kids don’t look happy,” and another added, “They all look depressed.”

Despite the concern from some, there were also words of admiration. One person praised Catherine, “Princess Kate looking Glorious and elegant in Purple 💟💜kids looking so smart and grown up. Love Louis ❤️x” Another fan expressed affection, “So special! What a beautiful family 💝”

The moment served as a reminder of the scrutiny that comes with royal life, especially for the youngest members, whose every appearance sparks commentary both warm and critical.