Queen Camilla Stuns in Historic Raspberry Pip Brooch for Easter Sunday 2026
The British royal family gathered at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor on Sunday, April 5, 2026, for the annual Easter Matins Service. Although the event was marked by the highly anticipated return of the Prince and Princess of Wales, all eyes were on Queen Camilla, who paired a bold ensemble with a piece of jewelry steeped in royal history.
A Bold Fashion Statement
Queen Camilla led the royal procession wearing a vibrant red wool crepe dress designed by Fiona Clare, complemented by a matching hat from Philip Treacy. To balance the striking color of her outfit, the Queen carried a black calfskin leather tote from Dior.
The focal point of her look, however, was the Raspberry Pip Brooch. This historic cross-shaped piece, crafted from diamonds and topaz, was pinned prominently to her dress, adding a layer of timeless elegance to her modern silhouette.
The History of the Raspberry Pip Brooch
The Raspberry Pip Brooch is more than just a stunning accessory; it carries a provenance dating back to 1881. Originally presented as a wedding gift to Cecilia Nina Bowes-Lyon, the Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne, the piece eventually entered the Royal Collection via the Queen Mother, who later passed it to Queen Elizabeth.
According to the Crown Chronicles, the brooch earns its unique name from its specific shape, which observers have compared to the delicate structure of a raspberry seed. This isn’t the first time Queen Camilla has favored the piece; she previously wore it on December 25, 2023, and during public appearances at Royal Ascot and a visit to Canterbury in 2025.
Royal Attendance and Notable Absences
The 2026 service marked a significant return to Windsor for the Wales family. After spending the previous two Easters privately at their Anmer Hall home in Norfolk, Prince William and Princess Catherine attended the service with their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. This outing served as the children’s first public appearance of 2026.
While King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Princess Anne were in attendance, some family members were notably absent. Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, along with their husbands, did not attend this year—a decision reportedly made with the agreement of the King. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew) was absent from the service, continuing his exile from royal life despite rare appearances on Easter Sundays in recent years.
“Pa always made a huge deal about Easter.” — Prince Harry, in his memoir Spare, highlighting the holiday’s importance to King Charles.
Key Takeaways: Easter Sunday 2026
- The Venue: Easter Matins Service at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor.
- Queen Camilla’s Attire: Fiona Clare red wool crepe dress, Philip Treacy hat, and a Dior black leather tote.
- Featured Jewelry: The Raspberry Pip Brooch, a diamond and topaz piece dating back to 1881.
- The Wales Family: Returned to the Windsor tradition after a two-year absence.
- Notable Absences: Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Raspberry Pip Brooch?
The Raspberry Pip Brooch is a historic cross-shaped diamond and topaz brooch that dates back to 1881. It was originally a wedding gift for Cecilia Nina Bowes-Lyon and later became part of the Royal Collection.
Why did the Wales family miss the last two Easter services in Windsor?
The Prince and Princess of Wales spent the previous two years celebrating the holiday privately as a family at their home, Anmer Hall, in Norfolk.
Who designed Queen Camilla’s Easter 2026 outfit?
Queen Camilla wore a dress by Fiona Clare and a matching hat by Philip Treacy.
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