The Princess of Wales joined Prince William at RAF Northolt to greet French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte as the couple disembarked their plane. The group then joined a carriage procession through Windsor with President Macron sitting alongside King Charles and Brigitte with Queen Camilla. Kate and William also joined the procession while in another carriage. Last week, it was announced that the princess, who continues to gradually return to royal duties following her cancer battle, would play a key role during the opening day of the state visit. Kate's appearance comes after she pulled out of her anticipated return to Ascot in June 18 he Princess of Wales was expected to attend the annual horse racing meeting but it was later confirmed she would not be at the event.

GB News presenter Ellie Costello reacted to Kate's return to royal events as she shared her thoughts in a candid post on Instagram. The broadcaster, 31, who fronts the Breakfast Show alongside Eamonn Holmes, couldn't resist taking the opportunity to gush over the future Queen.

Taking to the picture-sharing site on Wednesday, Ellie posted a photo of Kate at yesterday's event where the Princess donned a matching single-breasted jacket, which she paired with a dusty pink tulle skirt.

She accessorised the attire with a ribboned hat worn slightly to the side, a pearl necklace and a pair pink shoes.

Sharing a photo of Kate alongside William, Ellie wrote: "Princess of Wales in Dior."

In a four-word response, she added: "Her best look yet [heart-eye emoji]."

Kate also attended the state banquet held for President Macron later in the evening.

The princess, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and confirmed she was free from the disease at the start of this year, last made an appearance at a grand royal dinner in November 2023 in honour of the South Korean president.

Last week she visited Colchester Hospital's Wellbeing Garden as well as holding audiences and meetings at Windsor Castle.