The hidden meaning behind the Royal Family’s matching green outfits on Easter Sunday

The Royal Family presented a powerful display of unity on Easter Sunday last year, marking a heartfelt moment amid a challenging time for the monarchy.

Their attendance at the Easter Mattins Service at St George’s Chapel, Windsor, was more than a religious tradition – it reflected their resilience, solidarity and strength in the face of personal trials.

Leading the group in both presence and symbolism were Queen Camilla, Princess Anne and Sarah, Duchess of York, all of whom chose to wear varying shades of green.

But their sartorial choice went beyond a nod to seasonal spring hues.

Given green’s association with cancer awareness and Macmillan Cancer Support, the co-ordinated colour palette was widely interpreted as a sign of support for King Charles and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who had publicly revealed their cancer diagnoses earlier that year. 

Notably absent from the Easter service were Catherine and her husband, Prince William, who remained out of the public eye to focus on her treatment and recovery.

Green also carries broader symbolism – representing hope, healing, renewal and growth – all of which align with the message of Easter.

As one of the most significant celebrations in the Christian calendar, Easter centres on themes of sacrifice, resurrection and new beginnings.

Camilla led the ensemble in a sophisticated emerald green dress by Anna Valentine, complemented by an Amanda Wakeley cape and a wide-brimmed hat from renowned milliner Philip Treacy.

Her accessories added further refinement: a classic Chanel Flap Bag, elegant leather gloves and knee-high Russell & Bromley boots.

Most notably, she wore Queen Mary’s Emerald and Diamond Flower Brooch – a precious heirloom that was passed down to Queen Elizabeth II and worn by her at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 1997. 

Its presence on Camilla’s lapel offered a subtle but touching nod to royal legacy.

Princess Anne opted for a mint green herringbone coat, tailored with precision and paired with her go-to House of Bruar riding boots.

The coat, a staple in Anne’s wardrobe since at least 2015, signified her enduring style and penchant for rewearing meaningful pieces.

The fresh pastel shade offered a lighter take on the green theme, perfectly aligned with the tone of the season.

Sarah Ferguson, recently reintegrated into royal events following her Christmas appearance at Sandringham, stood out in a tweed Dolce & Gabbana dress.

Princess Anne opted for a mint green herringbone coat, tailored with precision and paired with her go-to House of Bruar riding boots

Sarah Ferguson, recently reintegrated into royal family events following her Christmas appearance at Sandringham, stood out in a tweed Dolce & Gabbana dress

Given green’s association with cancer awareness and Macmillan Cancer Support, the co-ordinated colour palette was widely interpreted as a sign of support for both King Charles and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who had publicly revealed their cancer diagnoses earlier that year

As the service concluded and the royals emerged from St George’s Chapel, the women’s green outfits were particularly striking against the darker, more formal attire of the men

Her look was completed with Chanel court shoes and a decorative headband from Roseings London.

Sarah’s presence was particularly moving, as she too has bravely faced health challenges, having battled breast cancer and, more recently, skin cancer.

Offering a vibrant contrast, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, wore a deep purple Prada coat dress, punctuated with gold buttons.

Her grey beret, borrowed from her daughter Lady Louise, added a personal touch, especially given Louise’s absence from the service.

The beret had previously been worn by Louise during the 2022 Easter Service, highlighting the bonds shared within the family.

As the service concluded and the royals emerged from St George’s Chapel, the women’s green outfits were particularly striking against the darker, more formal attire of the men.

The visual impact conveyed a message: one of hope, compassion, unity and the enduring strength of the Royal Family in times of personal and public challenge.