‘Full circle’ Prince William to face ‘bittersweet moment’ when royal title passed to Kate

The Duchess of Cambridge, who celebrates her 40th birthday today, is set to take over a particularly difficult royal title when Prince Charles ascends to the throne, one belonging to her husband, Prince William’s, late mother. Princess Diana, tragically never made it to the same birthday milestone, and since her death in 1997, her title of Princess of Wales has remained vacant.

Although the Duchess of Cornwall could technically use the title, she decided not to take it up out of respect and the strong public emotions it inspires. 

Prince Charles has to bestow his eldest son with the title of Prince of Wales when he becomes king.

A source told the Telegraph: “It’s hard to see it not happening.”

But they continued to address that the moment will be tinged with sorrow.

The source continued: “I’m sure it’ll be a bit of a bittersweet moment.

“This is her [Diana’s] son and his wife, so in some ways it will be coming full circle – but it will also be a poignant reminder of what we all lost.”

Kate herself has been compared to Diana over the years, but holds a reverence for the mother-in-law she never met through her fashion and jewellery.

In a series of photographs taken to commemorate the Duchess of Cambridge’s 40th birthday, Kate chose to pay not one, but two subtle but touching tributes to Princess Diana.

READ MORE: Kate Middleton makes touching tribute to Diana and Queen in new photos

One black-and-white portrait, showing Kate in a traditional pose shows off a sweet tribute to the late Princess of Wales.

Diana’s diamond and pearl drop earrings are on full display as the duchess models her hair swept back.

However, this is not the only tribute to her late mother-in-law as Diana’s iconic sapphire engagement ring is also in full view, standing out against the surrounding white of Kate’s dress.

The portraits were taken at Kew Gardens in November by fashion photographer Paolo Roversi, who described photographing Kate as “a moment of pure joy”.

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He said: “Taking the portrait of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge was a true honour for me and a moment of pure joy.

“I was moved by her warmth and friendly welcome and enchanted by her shining eyes that reflected the loveliness of her soul and her smile showing the generosity of her heart.

“It was a profound and rich experience for me, an unforgettable moment.

“I have met a wonderful person, a person who, with her positive energy, can bring hope to the whole world.”